US students' reading and math scores at historic lows: 'Devastating trend'

Key Findings

• Reading scores among 12th graders have plummeted to their lowest levels in over three decades, marking a deeply concerning decline. Over 30% now fall below the “basic” reading proficiency benchmark, the highest share seen in 30 years.

• Only 35% of high school seniors are reading at or above proficiency, a slight dip from 37% in 2019—and the lowest such figure since 1992.

• Math scores are even more alarming: just 22% of 12th graders are proficient, the lowest reading in the span of this test’s history. Nearly 45% of seniors fall below the “basic” level in math.

• 8th-grade science results have also slipped, with about 31% achieving proficiency—continuing a long-term downward trend.

Chronic Absenteeism: A Compounding Factor

• Rising student absences are exacerbating the learning crisis. In 2024, 31% of high school seniors reported missing three or more school days in the prior month, up from 26% in 2019.

Consequences & Commentary

• Education Secretary Linda McMahon described the findings as “devastating,” noting that the widening achievement gap persists despite billions in school funding.

• The results underscore that the steepest declines are among lower-performing students, while top performers at the 90th percentile have remained steady—deepening the divide.

• Report authors and officials trace the decline to not only the lingering impacts of pandemic learning loss but also to longer-term trends—including growing inequality, digital distractions, and systemic challenges in education.

At a Glance

These disheartening results spotlight a critical moment for U.S. education: foundational skills are slipping, achievement gaps are widening, and absenteeism is rising. It’s clear that urgent, targeted action is needed to support our most vulnerable students.

Source: abc NEWS