National test results in the US show that reading and math scores for 13-year-olds have continued to worsen since the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, setting up more roadblocks to their success in high school and beyond. The average scores on the 2023 National Assessment of Educational Progress, known as the Nation’s Report Card, show a decline of four points in reading and nine points in mathematics compared to 2020. This is the largest drop for 13-year-olds in mathematics seen in 50 years. The test results showed that students’ learning of math skills fell more sharply during the pandemic compared to reading, and the gaps between high- and low-performing students grew during the pandemic. 

Students who fall behind in math and reading by the eighth grade are less likely to succeed in high school and graduate on time, potentially leading to lower college enrollment and earning potential. Falling behind in math and reading early on can also have long-term consequences for a student's career prospects and overall economic well-being. In addition, there may be wider societal consequences, such as reduced economic growth and increased social inequality, as a result of a large number of students falling behind in essential academic skills.

Additional reference: Pandemic Learning Slide Continues - Ben Chapman, WSJ.com