US Schools Face Declining Basic Literacy and Math Skills; Experts Suggest 30 Reforms
Summary
Experts say American schools need targeted reforms to address falling basic reading and math skills, including small-group instruction, science-based teaching methods, and a stronger curriculum. The report argues that costly measures like broad salary hikes, vouchers, and device giveaways are less effective than practical classroom-focused interventions.
Key Points
- A report says the share of U.S. schools with students unable to read properly or solve simple math problems has risen sharply over the past decade.
- Experts recommend 30 reforms, with small-group instruction, scientific teaching methods, and a quality curriculum ranked among the most effective.
- Mississippi is cited as an example of how reading reforms, school accountability, and curriculum improvements can lift performance.
- The report says smartphones, not more devices, should be restricted in classrooms, and that technology alone will not fix weak learning outcomes.
