US high school students lose ground in maths and reading: Here’s why scores have hit a 20-year low

US high school students’ maths and reading scores have fallen to their lowest levels in over 20 years, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). The decline spans multiple subjects and grade levels, with widening achievement and gender gaps. While the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to setbacks, experts highlight longer-term educational challenges such as reduced reading stamina and increased screen time. Officials call for urgent action to address the crisis in US education.