U. S. Students Face Academic Challenges: A Closer Look at the Numbers

Key Findings

• Eighth graders struggle with science
• 12th graders fall behind in math and reading
• Post-pandemic decline highlights significant drops in performance

State-Specific Insights

Utah Students Outperform National Average

• Fourth and eighth graders score higher in math and reading
• Declining reading scores prompt state action
• Utah State Board of Education focuses on targeted support and training

Growing Concerns

Absenteeism on the Rise

• Nearly 1/3 of 12th graders miss 3+ days/month (up from 26% in 2019)
• Trend impacts all grades and may contribute to declining performance

Long-Term Trends

• Eighth-grade science scores unchanged since 2009
• 12th-grade math scores lower than 2005
• 12th-grade reading scores lower than 1992

Assessment Breakdown

Science

• Physical science, life science, Earth and space sciences
• Scientific inquiry and technological design

Math

• Number properties, measurement, data analysis, algebra
• Problem-solving skills

Reading

• Locate and recall information
• Integrate and interpret text
• Critique and evaluate text

Call to Action

• Targeted efforts needed to improve student performance
• Invest wisely in education to address unique student needs
• Address absenteeism to ensure student engagement and motivation