Message from Dr. Stephanie K. Siddens, Interim Superintendent of Public Instruction

10/24/2022

National math and reading data underscore improvement areas for Ohio students and the nation’s learners 

This is a critical time for Ohio schools and connecting students with much-needed learning supports. With new data available, we have a more complete picture of our state’s achievement and how that looks compared to academic performance across the country. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results, often referred to as the Nation’s Report Card, are a common measure of achievement for the country. Results for grades 4 and 8 math and reading scores were released today and provide additional information for the supports needed to accelerate learning in Ohio schools.

As expected, scores were down nationally compared to 2019, the last time students took the assessment. Math scores declined the most, particularly in middle school. Reading scores also are down, and early literacy continues be a main area of focus. Ohio’s results declined but were higher than the national average in math and similar to the national average in reading.

These NAEP results underscore the urgency we face as we continue building on students’ learning experiences. However, data is only valuable if we use it by harnessing lessons learned and introducing actionable takeaways that truly impact instructional supports and learning. We must keep pushing forward to bridge the math and reading gaps for current Ohio students. The students who were eighth-graders when the NAEP was administered are today’s high school freshmen.

I encourage Ohio’s school leaders to use this data, along with other state and local measures, to guide decision-making to help all students make up lost ground from learning disruptions experienced during the pandemic. I ask district and school leaders to maximize their use of federal relief funds, connect these to both instructional areas but also to those that can reduce non-academic barriers to achievement.

I am grateful for the incredible ways Ohio’s school leaders, educators, school staff and community partners have continued to expand learning opportunities for students. Through classroom instruction, tutoring and enrichment programs, a lot of meaningful work is happening on behalf of children. Ohio has made investments in programs to support schools and educators. Through state and federal relief efforts, known as Future Forward Ohio, we’re providing more targeted opportunities to learn through programs like after-school and summer programming and tutoring and enrichment supports. We’re also providing resources to assist districts in selecting high-quality instructional materials and creating more professional development opportunities for literacy instruction. In addition, we are strengthening Ohio’s High School Math Pathways work to provide new, differentiated options for students.

Ohio students and families are counting on us, and we want to provide the best supports possible for them. Let’s continue setting high standards and expectations for students and find ways to strengthen their learning experience. Please know the Ohio Department of Education is committed to partnering with you in this urgent work. The more we learn leads to additional insights about the supports children need. I am confident that by working together, focusing on data and information, and using evidence-based strategies, we can ensure our students gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.

As this academic year continues, I continue to marvel at the many ways Ohio’s schools are strengthening community partnerships. Relationships between our schools, families, businesses, community members and other organizations are critical to the work ahead. Ohio’s learning communities have countless points of pride and I appreciate everyone’s work.

Thank you for your continued dedication to Ohio’s students and families.