The majority of students in the US struggle to achieve reading proficiency. Why?

More importantly, what is the solution?

Based upon the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 70% of 4th grade students in the US failed to score proficient in reading. The latest results for 12th grade are at the lowest level in over 20 years, so this is a long-standing challenge. 

There are two primary elements to education: 1) instruction, and 2) student learning effectiveness.

Students either fail because of inadequate instruction, or they have a challenge processing instruction effectively, or some combination of both. 

As you can see in the above model, cognitive skills play a major role in student learning effectiveness.

If you as a school or parent want to ensure that your child achieves their full potential, it is important to assess and strengthen cognitive skills.