National averages drop from 2013

Missouri assessment scores in reading and math remained steady in 2015. However, national averages fell slightly from 2013 levels according to data released Wednesday from the National Center for Education Statistics.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) assesses fourth- and eighth-grade students across the country in math and reading every two years.  Missouri’s 2015 scores were not statistically different than those in 2013. More than 2,000 Missouri students were tested in each subject/grade.

Missouri’s rank improved even as its score held steady. Missouri went from 39^th to 29^th in fourth-grade math and from 26^th to 17^th in eighth-grade reading. The state held steady at 32^nd in eighth-grade math and 26^th in fourth-grade reading.

NAEP (often referred to as the “Nation’s Report Card”) is one measure the Department uses to assess progress toward Top 10 by 20, the state’s academic achievement initiative which aims for Missouri to be a top 10 state in education by 2020.

“NAEP results are an opportunity to assess where Missouri stands in math and reading achievement,” said Missouri Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven. “As a state, we still have work to do in order for ALL our children to be successful in high school and post secondary education.”

Here are Missouri’s results for the percent of students scoring at or above the proficient level:                                                                                               

Missouri was one of 12 states that did not see a statistically significant change in any of the four areas assessed. Overall, 33 states saw a statistically significant drop in at least one area, while 13 states saw a statistically significant increase in at least one subject area.

For more information and scores, visit the NAEP website

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