DC students see improvements in math, reading scores

WASHINGTON - Test scores in D.C. public schools are up in math and reading, according to a national report card. 

The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) measures student’s proficiency in math and reading in fourth grade and eighth grade.

Data shows D.C.'s fourth grade students are tied for most improvement in math in the nation, and beating out other big cities and national averages in reading. 

Big picture view:

While D.C. public school students saw improvement for both fourth and eighth graders, most of the nation needs improvement in math and reading following the pandemic. 

Despite some strides, DMV-area students are no exception.

In Virginia, in 2024, the average math score of fourth-grade students in Virginia was not significantly different from the average math score for students in the nation.

In Maryland, in 2024, the average math score of fourth grade students in Maryland was lower than the average score for students in the nation.

The big takeaway – students across the board are still behind after the COVID pandemic.

Local perspective:

The slight boost to scores for D.C. public school students in fourth and eighth grade is reportedly thanks to high-impact tutoring over the past four years and high-quality instructional materials for teachers to improve instruction in math, plus academic support for students impacted the most by the pandemic.

What they're saying:

"Last week, we celebrated our educators and school communities at the Standing Ovation. Today, these results once again underscore the progress that is possible when you have strong programs and world class educators in every public school," said D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. "The NAEP results tell the story of education in DC – how we became the fastest improving urban school district in the country, and now, how we are relentless in our work to get students back on track. That work is happening every day, in schools across all eight wards."   

"While we still have more work to do, it is exciting to see that our hard work and investments in improving math and reading proficiency have us back on a positive trajectory," said Interim State Superintendent Dr. Antoinette S. Mitchell. "Congratulations to all students who took the NAEP and proved education in DC is on the right track."