Declining Literacy Rates: Delaware Faces Reading Crisis Among Eighth Graders

February 2, 2025 - 14:37

Delaware is experiencing a significant literacy crisis as the latest reading scores for eighth-grade students plummet to a 27-year low. Recent data reveals that 45% of fourth-grade students in the state scored below basic reading levels on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) test. While this figure marks a slight improvement of 2 percentage points compared to previous years, it still highlights a concerning trend in literacy among young learners.

The implications of these scores are profound, raising alarms among educators and policymakers about the urgent need for effective interventions. The decline in reading proficiency can have lasting effects on students' academic performance and future opportunities. Stakeholders are now calling for a comprehensive review of the state's educational strategies to address these challenges.

As Delaware confronts this pressing issue, the focus will be on implementing targeted programs and resources aimed at improving literacy rates and ensuring that all students have the fundamental skills necessary for success.