US schoolchildren are falling further behind in reading and math, with analysis showing the decline began years before the pandemic and is closely tied to smartphones and social media. Latest National Assessment of Educational Progress data show only 22 per cent of high school seniors reached proficient or above in math in 2024, down from 24 per cent in 2019, while reading proficiency stood at 35 per cent, down from 37 per cent.
Higher percentages scored below basic in both subjects. The findings have sparked debate among educators and policymakers, many of whom blame digital distractions for sapping pupils' focus and reducing time available for study.
