Nation's Report Card reveals a decade-long decline in US high schoolers' reading and math scores, reaching historic lows in 2024. 12th graders' scores hit their lowest point in over two decades, while 8th graders also experienced significant losses in science. Experts attribute this to factors beyond the pandemic, including increased screen time and a shift in teaching methods, particularly in English, leading to reduced reading stamina. The achievement gap widened, with girls showing a steeper decline in STEM subjects. This underscores the need for focused action to improve student learning and address growing educational inequalities.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.