Tag #Reading Skills

What is the primary cause of the significant decline in American students' reading proficiency, and what are the immediate consequences of this trend?

American 8th graders' reading proficiency is at a three-decade low, with over 30% reading below basic levels, and 40% of 4th graders also falling below basic levels. This is largely attributed to the negative impact of pandemic school closures on students' language exposure and access to high-quality in-person instruction, disproportionately affecting those from underserved communities. These struggles will likely continue into adulthood unless significant improvements are made.