The issue of high school students’ academic performance, the impact of the pandemic, and national education assessment has come to the forefront with the release of the latest National Assessment of Educational Progress report. This report has exposed a disconcerting trend – a significant decline in the academic performance of American high school students after the pandemic.
The Academic Decline Unveiled
The data from the assessment is quite worrying. In particular, the scores of 12th-grade students in math and reading have dropped substantially. This decline is not just a minor setback but a clear indication of the profound impact the pandemic has had on education. For example, in math, students seem to be struggling with fundamental concepts that they should have mastered by this stage.
Root Causes of the Decline
The disruption to in-person learning during the pandemic is one of the main culprits. With schools closing and students forced to switch to online learning, many faced challenges such as lack of proper internet access and distractions at home. In addition, the lack of face-to-face interaction with teachers and peers affected the students’ ability to engage fully in the learning process. How the Pandemic Has Changed Education Forever on Education Week
Another factor is the psychological toll the pandemic took on students. The uncertainty, fear, and stress associated with the pandemic made it difficult for students to focus on their studies. Many were dealing with personal and family issues, which further hindered their academic progress.
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