Washington Students Beat National Average Despite U.S. Decline

While the rest of the country struggles with declining test scores, Washington students are proving that progress is still possible.

State Superintendent Chris Reykdal announced this week that Washington students tested at or above the national average in reading and math last year. This comes as welcome news during a challenging time for American education, with the National Assessment of Educational Progress reporting two decades of steady declines in both subjects across the country.

The wins don't stop at test scores. Attendance rates across Washington have climbed, and more students than ever are challenging themselves with dual credit programs like Advanced Placement and Running Start. These programs let high schoolers earn college credits while still in school, giving them a head start on higher education.

Reykdal shared the positive news at a September 9 press conference in Olympia as the new school year kicked off. The timing couldn't be better as families and educators look for reasons to stay hopeful about public education.

The Ripple Effect

When students show up and perform well, entire communities benefit. Higher attendance means teachers can build stronger relationships with students and maintain consistent learning momentum. More students in dual credit programs means more families saving money on college tuition while students gain confidence in their academic abilities.

The superintendent isn't resting on these achievements. He's asking the state Legislature to restore funding for programs cut in the last budget cycle, including the Transition to Kindergarten program and professional development for elementary math teachers. If approved, these programs would phase back in over the coming years, potentially boosting student success even further.

Washington's example shows that even when national trends look grim, individual states can chart their own course. The formula appears simple: support teachers, engage students, and maintain programs that work.

Other states watching their own numbers decline might want to take notes from the Pacific Northwest.