The latest release of the Nation’s Report Card includes extremely concerning results. According to the report card for grades 4 and 8, there was no measurable change in mathematics scores in all locales compared to 2022.
“NAEP scores are a clear reflection of the challenges our education system is facing, with widening gaps between high-performing and low-performing students. The most vulnerable students are falling further behind, and this trend cannot continue,” said Dr. Julia Rafal-Baer, board member of the National Assessment Governing Board.
Recent research shows math scores are closely tied to salary at age 30, regardless of a student’s background.
“Business and industry leaders across our region, and the nation, are seeking applicants with strong math, reasoning, and data analysis skills,” said Jack McDougle, president and CEO, Greater Washington Board of Trade. “Both a child’s potential for success and the future health of our workforce are dependent on equipping students with the skills that math helps form and strengthen.”
Call to action
The NAEP results have spurred the Collaborative for Student Success to take immediate action.
Their call to action is joined by 28 organizations representing educators, business leaders, and parents who are united in urging state and district leaders to implement policies that will improve math achievement for all students.
The importance of accurate assessments
Advocates express concern that current changes in the U.S. Department of Education create the possibility of states no longer being held accountable to track and report on student progress through assessments. Bipartisan solutions are available to policymakers that help ensure all kids – especially those from under-resourced communities – have access to a high-quality math education.
Strategies for improving math education in the schools
The organizations are recommending six key strategies, backed by research and practice:
1. Expand access to high-quality instructional materials aligned to rigorous standards.
2. Provide educators with high-quality professional learning focused on effectively using instructional materials in the classroom.
3. Increase instructional time by extending learning opportunities before, during, and after the school day.
4. Automatically enroll students into advanced math courses based on objective assessment results or other data.
5. Hold teacher preparation programs accountable for equipping teachers with the skills and content needed to succeed in math instruction.
6. Leverage math coaches at the school or district level to work closely with teachers to improve classroom practice and, ultimately, student math achievement.
“We also call upon local leaders to directly connect the math needs of our students to the workforce necessities of our communities,” added Cowen. “There’s no question that the more students that have a strong math education, the stronger our workforce will be.”
Progress is possible – and already happening
The good news is many states across the country are proving that progress is within reach:
* Rhode Island and Mississippi have taken concrete steps to increase access to high-quality instructional materials in math.
* Texas, Washington and North Carolina have implemented automatic enrollment policies to ensure students are not overlooked for advanced math coursework.
* Arkansas and Massachusetts have strengthened teacher preparation programs, requiring higher standards for math instruction.
* Alabama and Colorado are offering programs and resources empowering teachers to improve instruction and extend learning beyond the classroom.
These success stories demonstrate that bipartisan action can yield real results. Now is the time for every state and district to follow their lead.
Learn more at EduProgress.org/math.
Source: BrandPoint Content (Edited by d-mars.com)
