Nation's Report Card reveals declining scores in math, reading, and science for 8th and 12th graders. Eighth-grade science scores dropped 4 points since 2019, while 12th-grade math and reading scores fell 3 points. These declines, impacting even high-achieving students, follow staffing cuts at the U.S. Education Department under the Trump administration, impacting assessment processes. Experts emphasize the need for action to improve student learning while noting the federal government's limited power over curriculum.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.