Reading scores are slipping in many districts, with math showing a more mixed pattern. As states consider phonics-based instruction and schools weigh classroom strategies, parents and educators are asking: how widespread is the decline, what actions are working, and how should families respond when choosing schools? Below you'll find clear answers to common questions, drawn from the latest district-level data and reputable reporting.
Recent district-level data through 2025 show reading scores declined in a large majority of districts (about 83%), while math declined in roughly 70% of districts. The trend suggests a broad challenge in reading that predates the pandemic, with math showing a more mixed pattern depending on district and instructional approaches.
Yes. Some districts, such as Modesto, have reported sustained gains in reading (and math) where specific reforms were put in place. The evidence points to instructional shifts—particularly phonics-based approaches—as a possible factor in improving outcomes in certain districts.
States have started emphasizing more explicit phonics instruction in early grades, teacher training, and curriculum standards in response to Reading scores declines. Early signals from districts that adopted phonics reforms show mixed but promising gains in reading, suggesting that targeted phonics approaches can have a positive impact when implemented well.
Parents should know that reading trends vary by district and school, and that instructional methods matter. If you’re choosing a school, look for transparent information about reading curricula, teacher training in phonics, and ongoing progress monitoring. Engaging with school leaders and reviewing district reports can help you gauge how a school addresses reading instruction.
The latest district-level data are tracked by researchers like Stanford's Educational Opportunity Project and reported by major outlets such as The New York Times, The Associated Press, The Independent, and The New York Post. While data coverage is broad, it's important to consider local context, recent reforms, and ongoing studies when interpreting trends.
Declines can reflect a combination of factors beyond instruction, including student time on screens, literacy practices outside school, and the cumulative impact of earlier disruptions. Phonics-based reforms may help, but success often depends on comprehensive implementation, teacher support, and sustained progress monitoring.
The drops in U.S. scores go beyond the pandemic and cut across income, geographic and racial divides, new data shows.