Wash. — The education shift during the pandemic has recently become more concerning, with a study showing an increase of students who struggle with basic knowledge of school subjects.
According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, in 2019, right before the pandemic, 33% of eighth-grade students were at or above proficient in math. In 2022, the number dropped by 7%, with only 26% of eighth-grade students excelling in their math class.
The downfall of students’ understanding of materials also affected reading skills, with less than a third of fourth graders at or above proficient in reading. To see more statistics, visit aecf.org.
The study found that students were less likely to attend all their classes or pay attention while in class. By not participating in the classroom, students continue to the next grade with less than proficient knowledge in basic and necessary skills like writing, time management, and reading.
Lisa Hamilton, president and CEO of the Annie E. Casey Foundation spoke about the lack of resources on its official website.
“Kids of all ages and grades must have what they need to learn each day, such as enough food and sleep and a safe way to get to school, as well as the additional resources they might need to perform at their highest potential and thrive, like tutoring and mental health services,” said Lisa Hamilton, ”Our policies and priorities have not focused on these factors in preparing young people for the economy, short-changing a whole generation.”
According to the National Library of Medicine (NCBI), students who physically attended school during the pandemic attained higher academic outcomes than those who chose full-distance learning.
AECF also found that the need for a present and engaging education is affecting recent graduates who were below proficient in basic skills and are facing the circumstances when trying to join the workforce.
According to AECF, students who don’t advance beyond the lower levels of math are 50% more likely to be unemployed after graduating high school. These statistics also affect income, with the drop in math scores from pre- to post-pandemic will reduce lifetime earnings by 1.6%
