Ongoing Decline in Math and Reading Skills Among U.S. High School Students

September 10, 2025 - 00:27

Recent assessments reveal that U.S. high school students are experiencing a significant decline in math and reading proficiency. While the COVID-19 pandemic undeniably exacerbated these challenges, experts assert that the downward trend in academic performance is not solely a consequence of recent events. Instead, it reflects a longer-term issue within the educational system that has been developing over several years.

The impact of school closures, increased absenteeism, and disruptions to traditional learning environments during the pandemic has certainly contributed to the decline. However, educators and researchers emphasize that underlying factors such as curriculum inadequacies, teaching methodologies, and resource disparities have played a crucial role in shaping student outcomes.

As schools and policymakers grapple with these challenges, there is a growing urgency to address the systemic issues that have led to this persistent decline. The need for innovative teaching strategies, enhanced support for students, and equitable access to educational resources has never been more critical in reversing this troubling trend.