Jason Matheny President and Chief Executive Officer, RAND | RAND Corporation
U.S. students have yet to reach pre-pandemic levels in math and reading, according to recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. The average math scores for 8th graders in 2024 were eight points lower than those recorded in 2019. Additionally, the lowest-performing students scored worse in 2024 compared to 2022, after the pandemic's peak.
The RAND Corporation's new report offers insights into potential reasons for this slow recovery. Based on survey data from the American Youth Panel, it suggests that many middle and high school students find math classes unengaging. "About one-half of middle and high school students reported losing interest during their math lessons about half or more of the time," states the report.
The findings indicate that students who remain interested in math are typically those who understand it, feel supported, are confident, enjoy the subject, believe in its importance, and see themselves as 'math people.' Conversely, disengaged students express a desire for fewer online activities and more real-world applications within their lessons.
This research aims to guide curriculum developers, teachers, and specialists in crafting more engaging math experiences. It highlights an urgent need for policymakers and educators to address these engagement issues as part of efforts to improve educational outcomes post-pandemic.
RAND Education and Labor conducted this study with support from the Gates Foundation. The report is part of RAND's series aimed at addressing challenges faced by public and private sectors through rigorous research.
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