October 28, 2015
Thirty-four and 33 percent of U.S. eighth grade students are able to read and do math at grade level or better, an alarming statistic revealed today on the results of the 2015 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the Nation’s Report Card. Eighth grade reading and math scores are both down two percentage points from the 2013 report.
Results on the 2015 report card for U.S. fourth graders are 36 proficient or better in reading and 40 percent proficient or better in math. Reading went up one percentage point from 2013 data, while math is down two percentage points.
Looking at state level data, a majority of states have seen no significant changes in scores for fourth and eighth grade reading and math since 2013.
“Not only are these troublesome statistics on their own, but what’s worse is that the U.S. continues to lag behind other countries, putting our nation’s well-being and economic security at risk,” said Kara Kerwin, president of The Center for Education Reform.
“As our nation approaches a major presidential election and gubernatorial elections in 2016, we must keep education reform at the fore of the debate and challenge ourselves and our leaders to do what’s best for each and every single one of our nation’s students,” Kerwin continued.
“Out of 50 states and the District of Columbia, just six states earn scores above 80 percent when it comes to giving parents fundamental power, transparency and data regarding making the best decisions for their children’s educational outcomes according to the Parent Power Index. While NAEP gives us a snapshot sense of achievement, it is not the best barometer for knowing what works in helping each individual learn and achieve his or her own personal success. We need better data that allows us to know what gets results for the learner so that we can hold states and schools accountable,” Kerwin stated.