Washington, D.C., September 10, 2025
News Summary
Recent data from the National Assessment of Education Progress reveals that high school students in the United States are experiencing a concerning decline in reading and math skills. A significant percentage of 12th graders are scoring below basic proficiency, marking the lowest levels in over 20 years. Factors such as increased screen time and less rigorous reading assignments are contributing to this worrying trend. Education officials emphasize the need for states to re-evaluate their educational spending to address widening achievement gaps among students.
Washington, D.C. – High school students across the United States continue to show a troubling trend in academic performance, with recent data revealing a decade-long decline in reading and math skills. The National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP), often dubbed the nation’s report card, reported that 12th graders’ scores in these crucial subjects have plummeted to their lowest levels in over 20 years.
The findings, released on Tuesday, indicate that these assessments are the first since the COVID-19 pandemic for reading and math among 12th graders and for science among 8th graders. The latest results reflect a continuation of trends observed in previous NAEP releases, highlighting the seriousness of the decline in educational achievement.
According to the report, a staggering 32% of high school seniors scored below the basic proficiency level in reading, while 45% of these students failed to achieve even basic standards in math. This marks the highest percentage of low-performing students in mathematics since 2005. Only a mere 33% of high school seniors are considered prepared for college-level math, a drop from 37% in 2019. Additionally, the average reading score in 2024 is noted as the lowest since the NAEP assessments began in 1992.
Beyond 12th grade, significant declines were also seen among 8th graders, particularly in science where gaps in performance have widened considerably. Experts have pointed to various factors contributing to these trends, suggesting that the increase in screen time, shortened attention spans, and a focus on shorter texts in education play a significant role. Furthermore, a shift in teaching methods for English and language arts has led to a drastic reduction in the number of books assigned in high school classes, with some curricula only requiring students to read a handful of texts annually compared to around 20 two decades ago.
Matthew Soldner, acting commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics, expressed concern about the scores of the lowest-performing students, which have fallen to historic lows. Education Secretary Linda McMahon underscored the necessity for states to reclaim control over their educational spending, suggesting that such measures could help bridge widening achievement gaps. In contrast, House Democrats have argued that dismantling the Education Department would exacerbate issues of educational equity and lead to further declines in student outcomes.
Compounding these issues is the fact that fewer 8th graders are participating in inquiry-based learning activities, essential for grasping scientific concepts. A re-emerging gender gap has also been observed, particularly in science and math scores, with girls facing steeper declines since 2019. Overall, this grim data paints a concerning picture for the future of American education, as schools face increasing challenges in engaging students in meaningful learning experiences.
The tests that informed these results were conducted between January and March 2024. Experts indicated that the declines in performance observed are rooted deeper than the impacts of the pandemic, suggesting that the trends began well before COVID-19 disrupted educational systems across the country.
Summary of Key Findings
- 12th graders scored lowest in reading and math in over 20 years.
- 32% of high school seniors scored below basic proficiency in reading.
- 45% of high school seniors scored below basic achievement in math.
- Only 33% of seniors are prepared for college-level math.
- Significant gaps were found in Eighth-grade science performance.
- A gender gap has emerged with girls showing larger declines in science and math.
FAQ
What is the main finding from the NAEP report?
The main finding is that high school students are experiencing a decade-long decline in reading and math performance, with 12th graders’ scores hitting historic lows.
How many high school seniors scored below basic proficiency in reading and math?
According to the report, 32% of high school seniors scored below basic proficiency in reading, and 45% scored below the basic achievement level in math.
What factors are contributing to the decline in student performance?
Experts attribute the decline to multiple factors, including increased screen time, a focus on shorter texts, and less rigorous reading assignments in schools.
Chart of Key Features
| Category | 2024 Score | Previous Highs |
|---|---|---|
| Reading (12th Grade) | Lowest since 1992 | 20 books/year (20 years ago) |
| Math (12th Grade) | 45% below basic | 37% prepared for college (2019) |
| Eighth-Grade Science | Significant decline observed | Higher engagement pre-pandemic |
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Additional Resources
- KION546: Best Public Middle Schools in California
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- California Local: How California Measures School and Student Success
- Google Search: Educational success in California
- Newsweek: San Francisco Public Schools’ Equity Homework
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Fox News: San Francisco School District Ditches Grading Equity Program
- Google Scholar: Grading equity programs
- Mountain Enterprise: STAR Testing Results for El Tejon Unified School District
- Google News: Decline in education performance
- National Review: San Francisco High Schools’ Equity Grading Program
- CBS News: San Francisco Grading for Equity Backlash
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