Nation's Students in Reading Recession; California Districts Show Progress

A new national study reveals a deepening reading recession among U.S. students, with most states showing minimal progress since 2022.

However, several California districts are bucking the trend. - Only five states plus D.C.

saw meaningful reading growth from 2022 to 2025. - California ranked 29th in reading growth; students are about a third of a grade level behind pre-pandemic.

- Los Angeles Unified, Compton, and Modesto districts showed significant gains through phonics-based instruction. - Math scores improved in most states, including California.

The study underscores the effectiveness of evidence-based literacy strategies and targeted interventions to combat the long-term decline in reading skills.