Pandemic Leads to Record Declines in Math and Reading Scores Among 13-Year-Olds According to National Assessment

New data shows 13-year-olds in the US are struggling with basic math and reading skills following COVID-related disruptions.
Math scores have fallen to their lowest point since 1990 while reading scores are the lowest since 2004.
The declines were largest among lower-performing students and specific minority groups like Black and Latino students.
Despite efforts to address learning loss, gaps in scores suggest lingering impacts from the pandemic.
Fewer students reading for pleasure and taking advanced math signal risks for long-term impacts.