US Test Scores Hit Historic Lows in Math, Reading

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10 hrs ago

Above: U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon testifies on Capitol Hill on June 3, 2025. Image copyright: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

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The Spin

Republican narrative

These devastating test results prove that the federal education system has failed students despite spending trillions of dollars since the Department of Education was established. This is an economic emergency that threatens national security and workforce competitiveness. Returning education control to states will allow local communities and parents to innovate and tailor learning to student needs rather than continuing the broken federal approach.

Daily Wire

Democratic narrative

These test scores are just one measure of student success and shouldn't overshadow the broader needs students face in today's complex educational environment. Students require comprehensive mental health supports, educators need adequate resources and schools must maintain safe learning environments to help children thrive. The focus should be on addressing root causes — including student engagement and attendance issues — rather than simply restructuring governance.

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