U.S. math scores for 9- and 13-year-olds remain below 2015 levels, raising economic concerns
By
Lauren Lumpkin
Day-old at best. Try it dunked in something stronger.
Summary
Average math scores for 9- and 13-year-olds in the U.S. have dropped compared to a decade ago, based on 2025 federal testing data. Researchers and economists are concerned that these declining scores signal trouble not just for the education system but also for the future workforce, as students may lack the skills needed for high-skill jobs.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledAverage math scores for 9- and 13-year-olds in the U.S. remain lower than they were 10 years ago
a warning sign not only for schools, but also for the economy, according to some researchers
students are struggling, and experts said that means they may not be able to work in high-skill jobs
You might also wanna read
NAEP Assessment Shows Continued Decline in Reading and Math Scores for 13-Year-Old Students
The 2023 NAEP Long-Term Trend Assessment shows continued declines in reading and mathematics scores for 13-year-old students compared to pre
Declining Math Proficiency Among American Students: Educational Standards and College Readiness
The article examines the decline in math proficiency among American students, particularly focusing on how educational policies that lower s
12th graders hit lowest reading and math scores in over 20 years on national assessment
A decade-long decline in high school students' reading and math performance worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 12th graders scoring
Systemic Barriers Deny High-Scoring Students Access to Advanced Math Classes
The article reveals that a significant number of high-scoring students, particularly from low-income and minority backgrounds, are being den
Education Department report: Reading for pleasure among U.S. schoolchildren drops sharply since 2012
A new Education Department report reveals significant declines in reading for pleasure among U.S. schoolchildren. The share of 13-year-olds
Education Department report: Reading for pleasure among U.S. schoolchildren drops sharply since 2012
A new Education Department report reveals significant declines in reading for pleasure among U.S. schoolchildren. The share of 13-year-olds
U.S. drops to 24th in 2025 World Happiness Report, driven by declining youth well-being
The U.S. ranked 24th in the 2025 World Happiness Report, dropping one spot from the previous year and setting a new record low. The decline
