U.S. High School Seniors Hit 30-Year Low In Reading Scores

Federal data reveals US high school seniors have reached their worst reading performance in three decades. Only one-third of 12th-graders tested in 2024 possessed reading skills necessary for post-high school success. Math scores also declined to their weakest levels since 2005, with nearly half of students scoring below basic proficiency. The tested seniors were eighth-graders when COVID-19 began, experiencing significant virtual learning disruptions. However, experts note declining trends started years before the pandemic. Achievement gaps have widened as lowest-performing students fell further behind while top performers remained steady. The declines affected students across all demographic groups, with possible contributing factors including increased screen time and reduced academic accountability measures. (Story URL)