Nation’s Report Card reveals all-time low test scores

The National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) 2024 results released Tuesday reveal historically low scores – furthering the national downward trend that began over a decade ago.

The assessment evaluated 12th graders in reading and math and eighth graders in science. The scores in all subjects were the lowest they’ve ever been, according to the report.

For the 12th graders, 45% of students scored below the NAEP basic threshold in math and 32% scored below it in reading. This means nearly half of the students can’t apply knowledge about percentages to solve real-world problems and one-third can’t draw general conclusions from a block of text.

“If America is going to remain globally competitive, students must be able to read proficiently, think critically, and graduate equipped to solve complex problems,” U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said. 

Meanwhile, only 33% of 12th grade students were considered ready for entry-level college coursework in math. In reading, 35% were ready for entry-level courses. 

Both math and reading stats were reported at 37% in 2019. Despite these lower scores, more 2024 seniors were accepted into college compared to previous years. 

“The 12th grade is a major milestone in education, as students prepare for life after high school and consider their college and career opportunities,” Acting NCES Commissioner Matthew Soldner said. “Understanding how students are performing at the brink of entering higher education or the workforce is critically important for schools, institutions of higher education, industry, and the nation.” 

Billions of dollars are spent on K-12 programs each year, but the “devastating trend” of low test scores continue, McMahon said. 

“Success isn’t about how much money we spend, but who controls the money and where that money is invested,” she said. “That’s why President Trump and I are committed to returning control of education to the states so they can innovate and meet each school and students’ unique needs.”