Alabama students are making significant strides in academic recovery, according to newly released results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as America’s Report Card. The state has shown remarkable progress, particularly in 4th grade math, where Alabama jumped from 52nd place in 2019 to 32nd in 2024. This 6-point increase was the largest in the nation, placing Alabama among only five states to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels in 4th grade math.
Strong gains in math and reading
Alabama’s upward trend isn’t limited to math. The state has also made significant progress in reading. In 4th grade reading, Alabama climbed from 49th in 2019 to 34th in 2024, making it one of only two states, alongside Louisiana, to surpass pre-COVID performance.
In 8th grade, Alabama’s rankings improved modestly. The state moved from 49th to 47th in reading and from 52nd to 49th in math. While these gains are smaller, education leaders see them as a step in the right direction.
Leadership applauds progress, acknowledges more work ahead
Governor Kay Ivey praised students, teachers, and parents for their efforts, emphasizing that Alabama is becoming a stronger education state. “Strong students will lead to a strong Alabama,” Ivey said. “While there is still work to do, our forward momentum is clear.”
State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey credited teachers and school leaders for driving the improvements. “We made math a priority, raised academic standards, and implemented a more rigorous state test,” Mackey said. “But it’s our educators who have made the biggest difference.”
However, Mackey acknowledged that middle school progress remains a challenge. He pointed to new state-funded initiatives aimed at struggling readers and efforts to refine math instruction at the middle school level. “We’re heading in the right direction, but we must continue pushing forward,” he said.
Special education students show remarkable growth
Alabama students with special needs have also made substantial progress. Their 4th grade math scores increased from 196 in 2019 to 212 in 2024, surpassing the national average. In reading, scores improved from 164 to 176 over the same period.
Alabama’s approach to academic recovery
Efforts such as incorporating the NAEP framework into Alabama’s Course of Study and implementing key policies like the Alabama Literacy and Numeracy Acts have laid a strong foundation for continued improvement.
National context
While Alabama has shown impressive gains, many states are still struggling to return to pre-pandemic performance. Nationally, 4th grade reading scores dropped from 219 in 2019 to 214 in 2024. In 8th grade, reading fell from 262 to 257. Math scores have also declined, with 8th grade math dropping from 281 to 272 and 4th grade math falling from 240 to 237.
Alabama’s progress stands out against these national trends, reinforcing the state’s commitment to strengthening education. With continued investment and support for students and educators, Alabama aims to build on this momentum in the years ahead.
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