Governors urge educational reform following declining national test scores

On January 29, 2025, the National Governors Association (NGA) released a statement addressing the latest findings from the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP). The report highlighted a decline in test scores among American students. Compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, fourth graders showed a decrease of three points in math and five points in reading. Eighth graders experienced an eight-point drop in math and a five-point drop in reading. Although there was a slight improvement in fourth-grade math scores since 2022, reading scores continued to decline.

Governor Jared Polis of Colorado said, "This is an all-hands-on-deck moment for education," emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to address long-standing declines in student performance. He highlighted the importance of initiatives like free early childhood education and afterschool programs to bridge the gap between high-performing and struggling students.

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt echoed these sentiments, saying, "Every child should have access to education that prepares them for success in life." He advocated for more options for parents and students and increased investment in teachers and public education.

The NGA's "Let's Get Ready" initiative aims to support governors in developing policies that improve educational outcomes and prepare students for future workforce demands. Governor Polis will discuss this initiative at upcoming events, including a virtual discussion on the Nation’s Report Card results.

Governors from across the country are expected to join these discussions at the NGA Winter Meeting scheduled for February 21-22 in Washington, D.C.

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