More than half of fourth graders in the U. S. are not reading at grade level, according to new data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). The percentage of students deemed proficient has dropped by 2 percentage points compared to two years ago. Jeanne Allen, from the Center for Education Reform, stated that many school systems fail to deliver effective reading instruction, neglecting proven teaching methods and the need for engaging content. Mindy Sjoblom from OnYourMark Education noted the severe long-term risks for students not reading at grade level by third grade, including a higher likelihood of dropping out of school.
The recent NAEP results reveal a troubling decline in both reading and math performance among fourth and eighth graders. In reading, only 31% of fourth graders showed proficiency, which is a slight decrease from 2022 and similar to scores from 1992. Moreover, 60% are at the NAEP basic level, indicating only partial mastery of required skills, while 40% are below this level, an increase from 2022. Among eighth graders, 30% reached NAEP proficiency in reading, with 67% at the basic level. Additionally, 33% are below basic level, reflecting a growing concern in reading abilities.
In math, fourth graders displayed a slight improvement, gaining 2 points since 2022 after a previous decline. However, eighth-grade math scores did not show significant changes. Peggy G. Carr from the National Center for Education Statistics emphasized that student achievement has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, with lower-performing students struggling primarily in reading.
Daniel McGrath, another official from the NCES, pointed out that the continuous declines in reading achievement since 2019 indicate complex challenges that extend beyond the pandemic. Nicki Neily, president of Parents Defending Education, called the results alarming and labeled the current education system a crisis. Neily criticized the focus on social-emotional learning and identity politics rather than essential academic skills, arguing that this has worsened issues like chronic absenteeism and diminished the perceived importance of education.
She urged a national commitment to prioritizing reading, writing, and arithmetic, advocating for a shift back towards a rigorous educational framework that emphasizes hard work and excellence. The overall message highlights a pressing need to address the educational shortcomings affecting American children today.
https://www.christianpost.com/news/education-experts-worry-as-american-children-fall-in-reading.html
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