U.S. high school students lose ground in math and reading, continuing years

High school students hit historic lows in math and reading on national tests, continuing a decade-long decline that predates the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eighth graders also lost significant ground in science.

Experts cite increased screen time, shortened attention spans and changes in teaching methods as underlying factors beyond pandemic-related disruptions.

WASHINGTON — A decade-long slide in high schoolers’ reading and math performance continued during the pandemic and through 2024, with 12th graders’ scores dropping to their lowest level in more than 20 years, according to results released Tuesday from an exam known as the nation’s report card.

Eighth-grade students also lost significant ground in science skills, according to the results from the National Assessment of Education Progr