National Trends, Local Consequences: NAEP Results Highlight Continued Work for Texas
A Statement by EdTrust-Texas State Director Jonathan Feinstein

Students across the country continue to struggle with math and reading, according to the latest 12th grade NAEP results. There were slight improvements to fourth grade math scores earlier this year, with students performing above the national average. However, fourth grade reading performance declined, with scores falling below the national average. Eighth grade reading and math scores also fell, continuing a downward trend.

Persistent disparities and opportunities drive these unacceptable statewide results. While low-income students have shown encouraging progress in early reading and math, wide learning gaps remain for too many Black, Latino, and low-income students. Long-standing structural barriers — including inequitable school funding, limited access to rigorous coursework, and insufficient support for students and families — continue to widen opportunity disparities across the state. The state’s ability to meet its long-term educational and workforce goals is threatened by these gaps.

This is a moment that requires more than small adjustments. In this recent legislative cycle, state lawmakers codified an explicit goal to make Texas a top five state on the NAEP by 2040. They also took positive steps toward that goal by making historic investments in teacher preparation and retention, evidence-based literacy curriculum and interventions, and proven high school models to improve college and career success. Texas must implement these policies with a commitment to closing gaps and ensuring that every student, no matter their background, has access to an excellent education.

The stakes are high for Texas families, communities, and the state’s future. Ensuring that all students graduate prepared for college and career will require bold action and sustained investment. Our students cannot wait for meaningful change.