BOSTON, MA – The recently released 12th grade math and reading National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores are deeply alarming. They confirm that students across the nation continue to struggle with fundamental reading and math skills, while achievement gaps by race and income persist year after year with little progress.

Although Massachusetts-specific results have not yet been released, we fear they will once again reflect a familiar reality, which recent indicators have revealed: like their peers across the country, our students are struggling with the most basic academic skills — reading and math.

It’s no secret that Massachusetts students have historically outperformed national averages. Yet, beneath the headline numbers, persistent gaps in opportunity and achievement remain. The data tells a stark story:

• Earlier this year, NAEP data showed that Massachusetts fourth graders earned an average math score of 246, which is above the national average of 237. Yet disparities for Black, Latino, English learner, and students from low-income backgrounds remain alarmingly wide.
• Literacy scores, though above national benchmarks, have not rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. The most recent NAEP results show that 60% of Massachusetts fourth graders are not reading at a proficient level, with students of color, students from low-income backgrounds, and underserved populations disproportionately affected.

These inequities mirror national trends, underscoring a harsh reality: race, income, and zip code remain powerful predictors of student outcomes.

At a moment when the federal government is retreating from its responsibility to underserved schools, Massachusetts cannot afford to be complacent. We must act decisively and return to basics: confronting the literacy crisis head-on while addressing the emerging math crisis.

To ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed, state leaders must prioritize:

• Equitable funding that truly meets the unique needs of all students
• Access to diverse, well-prepared, and stable educators
• Evidence-based strategies that address unfinished learning and aim to accelerate academic growth

Investments in high-quality instruction and strong student supports are essential, not optional. Without them, we cannot close persistent achievement gaps or equip every child for the future.

The stakes could not be higher. How can we expect students to access high-paying, fast-growing STEM and math-related careers without strong math skills? How can they pursue college, careers, or civic life without foundational literacy, writing, and communication skills? Every child deserves these opportunities. It is our collective responsibility to provide them.

Our goal is clear: Massachusetts must lead not only in overall performance but in building a public education system where every student — regardless of background — has the resources, opportunities, and support to thrive.

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About EdTrust: EdTrust is committed to advancing policies and practices to dismantle the racial and economic barriers embedded in the American education system. Through our research and advocacy, EdTrust improves equity in education from preschool through college, engages diverse communities dedicated to education equity and justice, and increases political and public will to build an education system where students will thrive. Learn more.