US Student Reading Scores Decline to New Lows, Widening Achievement Gaps

Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), often referred to as "The Nation's Report Card," reveals a continued decline in reading proficiency among U.S. students, reaching historic lows in 2024. Fourth and eighth graders experienced a two-point average drop in reading scores compared to 2022, compounding a downward trend that predates the COVID-19 pandemic. This decline is particularly pronounced among lower-performing students, exacerbating existing achievement gaps.

In contrast, math scores showed mixed results; fourth-grade math scores saw a slight two-point increase nationally, though they remain below 2019 levels. Eighth-grade math scores, however, remained flat compared to 2022, following a significant drop. Peggy Carr, commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics, stated, "We are not seeing the progress we need to regain the ground our students lost during the pandemic." She emphasized that low-performing students are particularly struggling, especially in reading.

The state of academic performance has fueled public debate, with some observers, like social media user SpikeSteel, expressing strong opinions on educational trends. In a recent tweet, SpikeSteel remarked, "> So, the students can't read, write, or do basic math. But, they're fully fluent in racism? Ah, progress. Progressive style." This comment reflects broader discussions linking perceived academic shortcomings to controversies surrounding curriculum content, including critical race theory (CRT) and progressive education.

Critical race theory, an academic framework examining systemic racism, has become a focal point of contention in K-12 education. While proponents argue it helps students understand historical and ongoing societal inequalities, critics contend that its concepts, when introduced in schools, can lead to divisiveness or make students feel collective guilt based on race. Numerous states have introduced or passed legislation aimed at restricting the teaching of concepts associated with CRT, often focusing on ideas of inherent privilege or blame.

Similarly, "progressive education," characterized by student-centered, experiential, and inquiry-based learning, is also part of the ongoing discourse. Advocates believe it fosters critical thinking and creativity, preparing students for a complex world. However, critics argue that an overemphasis on these methods, without sufficient foundational knowledge and direct instruction, can contribute to academic rigor concerns and potentially widen achievement gaps, especially for disadvantaged students. The debate continues as educators and policymakers seek effective strategies to improve student outcomes amidst evolving educational philosophies and societal expectations.