The Long-Term Cost of Student Failure in the US
The results of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) published in October 2022 revealed a general decline in mathematics and reading among 4th and 8th grade students in the United States. According to data from the Department of Education, the average scores for 8th grade mathematics fell by 8 points. Eric Hanushek, who served on the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB) as a testing and measurement expert until 2023, emphasized that the learning losses are significant. Hanushek asserts that economic growth is dependent on the skills of the workforce. Thus, any decrease in academic achievement may have adverse effects on future economic growth and innovation. Lower levels of academic achievement can result in a less skilled labour force and a weaker economy.
The extent of these losses varies due to differences in state economies. For example, students in regions with minimal learning setbacks, such as Utah, may experience a mere 2% decrease in lifetime earnings. However, students in states with more significant losses, such as Delaware and Oklahoma, can expect a nearly 9% reduction in future earnings.
Research by Hanushek and other experts shows that pandemic-related learning losses will result in a deceleration of economic growth. According to a study conducted by researchers from Harvard and Dartmouth, a decrease in maths scores resulted in a loss of $900 billion in earnings for public school students during the 2020-21 school year. However, academic improvement has the potential to reduce these losses to $600 billion.
It is imperative to take prompt action to compensate for learning losses. Education experts emphasize the importance of closely monitoring students as they graduate from high school to support their future education and career plans. To improve academic performance and overcome current educational challenges, school districts must seek feedback from students and families. They should also refer students to supportive programmes, such as summer school, and budget and plan for future tutoring and supplemental educational services. They should also refer students to supportive programmes, such as summer school, and budget and plan for future tutoring and supplemental educational services. This will ensure that students receive the necessary support to succeed academically. Improving education requires a coordinated effort at both the local and national levels.