The data also noted a significant decline when compared to the scores from a decade ago. In reading, the average scores have decreased by seven points, while in mathematics, the decline amounts to a substantial 14 points.
The data also noted a significant decline when compared to the scores from a decade ago. In reading, the average scores have decreased by seven points, while in mathematics, the decline amounts to a substantial 14 points.
The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress long-term trend assessments in reading and mathematics have revealed a significant decline among 13-year-old students in the United States.
The findings revealed a decline in the average scores of 13-year-olds in reading and mathematics compared to the previous assessment conducted in the 2019-20 academic year. The average scores for this age group dropped by four points in reading and nine points in mathematics.
The data also noted a significant decline when compared to the scores from a decade ago. In reading, the average scores have decreased by seven points, while in mathematics, the decline amounts to a substantial 14 points.
Even higher-performing students experienced a decline, with a six-point decrease in math scores.
United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona responded to the findings, acknowledging the devastating impact of the pandemic on students’ learning and emphasizing the long-term effort and investment required to reverse the damage.
“Today’s results underscore why the Biden-Harris administration remains laser-focused on our plan to Raise the Bar for the academic achievement of all students and maximize the American Rescue Plan’s historic investments in recovery,” he said in a statement.
In response to the decline, schools have allocated nearly 60 percent of their American Rescue Plan funds to address lost learning time and expedite academic recovery. This includes hiring additional teachers, counselors, and support staff, providing tutoring and one-on-one support to students, and extending learning time through high-quality afterschool and summer programs.
While the latest data underscores the challenges that lie ahead, Cardona expressed optimism regarding the positive outcomes resulting from the American Rescue Plan’s historic investments.
“I’m encouraged that the historic investments and resources provided by the American Rescue Plan and the Department of Education are beginning to show positive results, with several states returning to pre-pandemic levels of achievement on their state math and literacy assessments, as well as promising results for the US on a recent international reading assessment,” he said.
Cardona assured that the Department of Education continues to offer technical assistance, issue guidance, and organize events focused on specific strategies outlined in the “Raise the Bar: Lead the World Plan” to improve academic performance and address educational disparities.
