The Youth Are Still Struggling in Reading and Math

Parents have spent years hearing about learning loss after the pandemic. Many hoped students would bounce back once schools reopened. New national test results show that recovery is happening for some children, but many teenagers still face challenges.

According to the latest federal data, younger students have regained much of the academic ground they lost. Teenagers, however, continue to lag behind in reading and math. The findings raise important questions about how schools, families, and communities can help older students succeed.

Younger Students Are Showing Progress

There is some encouraging news in the report.

Nine year olds have returned to pre pandemic reading levels. They also showed improvement in math compared with recent years. Experts believe younger children benefited from stronger reading instruction and more focused efforts to address learning gaps.

These gains suggest that targeted support can make a real difference. When schools invest in foundational skills, students often respond with measurable growth.

Teen Reading Scores Remain Stuck

The picture looks different for teenagers.

The average reading and math scores for 13 year olds remain below pre pandemic levels. Reading scores are especially concerning. Federal officials noted that today’s scores are roughly the same as those recorded when this assessment began in the early 1970s.

Education leaders say many of these students experienced major disruptions during key elementary school years. Those missing building blocks may still affect their learning today.

Fewer Kids Are Reading for Fun

One trend stands out in the data.

Far fewer students say they read for enjoyment. Only 14 percent of 13 year olds reported reading for fun every day. That number was 27 percent in 2012. Among younger children, daily reading for pleasure has also dropped significantly.

Researchers point to several possible reasons. Increased screen time, social media, and digital entertainment compete for children’s attention in ways previous generations never experienced.

Why This Matters for Families

Strong reading skills affect much more than English class.

Children use reading to understand science, history, math problems, and everyday information. When reading skills weaken, learning becomes harder across multiple subjects.

For parents, the findings serve as a reminder that learning does not happen only in the classroom. Reading together, encouraging independent reading, and limiting distractions can help children build stronger literacy habits.

There Is Still Reason for Hope

While the numbers are concerning, experts do not believe the situation is permanent.

The United States has improved student achievement before. Education leaders say the recent progress among younger students shows that recovery is possible when schools and families work together.

The latest results may be a wake up call, but they are also a reminder that improvement can happen. The challenge now is making sure teenagers receive the same level of attention and support that helped younger students move forward.