Lack of basic reading skills in U.S. students
According to a recent NAEP(National Assessment of Educational Progress) report, U.S. students’ abilities in reading, math, and science have fallen to their lowest levels in decades. This raises concerns about whether the United States can adapt to a global competitive environment accelerated by new technologies such as AI.
Declining academic achievement
45% of twelfth graders lack basic math skills, and more than 30% of students perform below the basic level in reading. The decline is particularly pronounced among low-achieving students, continuing a downward trend that began before COVID-19.
Regional disparities
Reading, math, and science scores declined in the South and Midwest.
Political response
The Trump administration insists that the authority of the Department of Education should be reduced, with education overseen primarily by state and local governments.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon said, “Success isn’t about how much money we spend, but who spends it,” highlighting the push to dismantle the Department of Education and delegate authority to the states.
The report highlights structural problems in the U.S. education system and coincides with a political movement to reduce the federal government’s role and return control of education to the states and local communities.