Key Takeaways:
- Increasing numbers of non-English speaking students in U.S. schools correlate with declining reading scores.
- English learners perform below national averages, with significant gaps in states like Texas, New Mexico, and California.
- National reading scores have dropped, with a third of 8th graders failing to meet proficiency benchmarks.
- COVID-19 impacts, shifts in education priorities, and immigration trends contribute to these challenges.
The Rise of English Learners and Falling Test Scores
A recent report from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) highlights a concerning trend: as the number of non-English speaking students in U.S. schools grows, reading scores are declining. This correlation is evident across the country, with English learners consistently scoring lower than their peers.
How English Learners Compare to Other Groups
English learners face significant challenges, with 79% of 4th graders and 84% of 8th graders scoring below average. These numbers surpass those of low-income students and students with disabilities, indicating a unique struggle among non-English speakers. For instance, while 60% of economically disadvantaged 4th graders scored below average, 79% of English learners fell into the same category.
State-by-State Breakdown
The shift in student demographics is pronounced in states like Texas, New Mexico, and California. Texas saw English learners increase from 7% to 23% of 4th graders between 1998 and 2024. New Mexico and California experienced similar growth, with their populations rising to 18% and 22%, respectively. These states now rank among the lowest in reading scores, with New Mexico at the bottom nationally.
Why Are Test Scores Dropping?
The decline in reading scores isn’t solely due to the increase in English learners. Other factors, such as prolonged COVID-19 school closures and shifts in educational priorities towards diversity and inclusion initiatives, play a role. The Trump administration has moved to address these shifts, while immigration trends under the Biden administration have also impacted school demographics.
The Way Forward
Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Schools must support English learners with targeted programs while recovering from pandemic-related setbacks. By understanding and addressing these factors, educators and policymakers can work to improve reading proficiency and overall educational outcomes for all students.