MATH and reading scores for 13-year-olds in the United States have plunged to their lowest levels in decades, according to a recent federal test.
The results indicate the persistent learning setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, raising concerns about the speed of academic recovery.
The test, known as the nation’s report card, showed a significant decline in average math scores by nine points and reading scores by four points since 2020.
These drops erase previous gains and bring the scores to their lowest since 1990 for math and 2004 for reading.
Students who were already struggling experienced the most severe declines, with a drop of 12 to 14 points compared to stronger students’ six to eight points.
There were also notable differences among racial groups, with Native American students and Black students experiencing the largest score decreases.
The pandemic’s disruptions have disproportionately affected Black and Latino students and those from low-income families, exacerbating the score declines.
Despite investments in academic recovery efforts, the setbacks persist.
The test results also revealed a decline in reading habits, with fewer students reporting daily reading for pleasure.
This decrease in reading engagement has negative social and academic implications.
Student absenteeism has also increased, with the share of students missing multiple days of school doubling since 2020.
The results highlight the connection between attendance and academic performance, as students with better attendance achieved higher average scores.
Overall, these findings underscore the urgent need to address the learning setbacks faced by 13-year-olds in the US.
Education officials emphasize the importance of sustained efforts and investments to support academic recovery.
