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February 2025
Many parents and educators are raising concerns over the noticeable decline in fundamental reading and math skills among students since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. These observations have been corroborated by troubling national test scores, underscoring the long-term effects of the pandemic on student learning.
Remote Learning Challenges and Declining Performance
Peggy Carr, commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), has been closely monitoring the effects of the pandemic on education. She attributes much of the decline to remote schooling and the widespread disruptions that continue to impact classroom performance.
Recent assessments reveal a concerning trend: fourth graders have seen their reading scores drop from an average of 220 to 215. This shift highlights that the effects of pandemic-related challenges were not short-term but have lingered, causing long-term damage to essential language skills. Carr noted, “Student joy for reading is declining. We know that teachers are not asking as much for essay responses to questions,” further indicating the challenges faced by both students and educators.
In math, the declines are even steeper. Eighth graders saw an average drop of eight points in math scores, with the most significant impact felt by lower-performing students. Many teachers are struggling to provide remedial lessons to bring students back to grade level. Fourth-grade math scores also declined, though higher-performing students in eighth grade showed small gains compared to last year.
This disparity has led to the largest gap ever observed between top and bottom performers, according to recent analyses.
State-Level Successes Offer Hope
Despite the widespread challenges, some states have seen positive results. In Alabama, fourth graders achieved higher math scores than before the pandemic, while students in Louisiana surpassed their previous reading marks. These state-level successes suggest that certain local policies and classroom strategies may be helping to bridge the academic gaps.
Education officials are studying these successes to understand what makes these programs effective. Some experts believe that emphasizing simpler, more consistent teaching methods may provide students with the stability they need to regain foundational skills in math and reading.
Learning Gaps Widened by Pandemic Disruptions
The shift to virtual learning, along with reduced class time and fewer group discussions, made learning particularly difficult for many students, especially those from families with limited access to the internet. These disruptions have exacerbated existing academic gaps, leading to significant skill deficits, particularly in younger students who require direct support to master essential reading and math concepts.
Research on pandemic-related school closures suggests that lost instructional time, along with shorter lessons and fewer opportunities for practice, has compounded the challenges faced by students.
The Role of Attendance and Engagement
New data reveals that students who are frequently absent are more likely to fall behind. The lack of consistent classroom exposure and teacher feedback makes it difficult for these students to stay on track. In response, schools are focusing on improving attendance and developing more engaging lesson plans to capture students’ attention and reawaken their interest in learning.
Rethinking Resources and Support for Students
Many districts are implementing additional support mechanisms, such as after-school programs, summer catch-up sessions, and small-group tutoring, to ensure that students get the focused instruction they need. Furthermore, efforts are underway to enhance teacher training in reading and math instruction, with the hope that well-prepared educators will provide clearer explanations and more consistent practice for their students.
Access to books and reading materials outside of school hours is another critical factor. For students who do not have these resources at home, schools are increasingly providing tools and opportunities to support independent learning.
Addressing the Emotional Toll of the Pandemic
The emotional and mental toll of the pandemic is also a significant concern. Many students are still grappling with stress, anxiety, and feelings of uncertainty, all of which can hinder their motivation to engage in academic activities. Experts suggest that schools provide counseling or mindfulness programs to help children regain emotional stability, as even small steps in this direction can lead to greater academic success.
A Collective Effort for Recovery
Carr acknowledged that the results of the latest assessments are sobering, but emphasized that educators remain committed to helping students recover. “We are continuing to find new ways to rekindle curiosity in reading and math,” she said. Some schools are employing interactive lessons, and communities are organizing volunteer math programs to support struggling students. Early signs of success from these efforts suggest that a collective, community-driven approach can play a crucial role in helping students recover from the academic setbacks caused by the pandemic.
The latest findings are outlined in the National Assessment of Educational Progress Report Card, which serves as a key resource for understanding how students are faring in the wake of the pandemic.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the latest reports and assessments from educational experts and authorities. The views expressed are a reflection of current research, and individual student experiences may vary. Readers are encouraged to consult local educational professionals for personalized advice and support.
