U.S. Reading Scores Hit Record Lows, Raising Concerns About Education and Technology

The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress reveals historic declines in reading proficiency among students, prompting debates over causes and solutions.

The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) found that 33% of eighth graders and 40% of fourth graders have 'below-basic' reading skills, the highest levels recorded in decades.
Experts attribute the decline to multiple factors, including pandemic-related disruptions, increased screen time, and shifts in educational priorities toward test preparation.
The pandemic's impact on early literacy development and absenteeism continues to affect students' foundational reading skills, especially among younger learners.
Policy responses include proposals to limit in-school smartphone use, expand school choice programs, and increase funding for teacher training and literacy resources.
Data shows that students in Catholic schools and those participating in educational choice programs performed better, highlighting disparities in educational outcomes across school types.