ELSF Calls for Stronger Educational Materials in Response to NAEP Scores

Recent data indicates a concerning trend in reading and math scores for those designated as English Learners (ELs) and non-English Learners (non-ELs) students across various grade levels. Since 2022, average scores for ELs have declined more sharply than for non-ELs, particularly in the lower percentiles. 

"The recent NAEP report highlights a troubling trend: while some progress has been made, students in the United States, especially those designated as English Learners, continue to lag in both math and English," said Crystal Gonzales, Founder and Executive Director for English Learners Success Forum (ELSF).  

Reading Scores: 

• According to the NAEP report, ELs experienced a five-point decline in reading scores, while non-ELs saw a two-point drop. This has contributed to a widening achievement gap. It's notable that only Washington state reported score increases for ELs.  

• Average Grade 8 reading scores in 2024 were lower for ELs in the lowest percentile group (25th percentile).  However, there were no significant changes for ELs in the 75th percentile group. 

• While scores declined for non-ELs in the lowest percentile group, ELs scores declined more than non-ELs, widening the gap between the groups.  

• ELs declined by eight points as compared to three for non-ELs in the lowest percentile group.  The average EL scores declined by five compared to two for non-ELs. 

According to the NAEP report, an alarming 67% of fourth and eighth graders remain below the basic proficiency threshold in mathematics. "From 2019 to 2024, we’ve witnessed a decline in math scores across all performance quartiles, reinforcing the urgent need for effective educational strategies," added Gonzales. "The declines among multilingual learners are particularly concerning and highlight the gaps in support for our most vulnerable students. It is clear that the current approach and materials available are not sufficient for our multilingual learners."  

Math Scores: 

• In the analysis of Grade 8 math scores, ELs in the lowest percentile fell by six points, widening the gap with non-ELs, who only dropped by two points. The achievement gap increased further as non-ELs improved in higher performance levels with no notable improvements for ELs. Scores for ELs in the lowest percentile group fell by six points as compared to two points for non-ELs.   

• Scores rose for non-ELs in the 75th percentile while there was no significant change for ELs in this performance group.  The achievement gap increased further as non-ELs improved in higher performance levels with no notable improvements for EL. 

• Average scores for ELs in Grade 4 math remained stable, but the gap in achievement continues to grow as non-ELs improved by three points in the 75th percentile. Only four states saw score increases for ELs in math, while the overall performance of ELs remains a concern in the majority of states. 

"Education should empower every student to reach their full potential; it's a national shame that approximately 70% of teachers feel unprepared to teach multilingual learners," said Gonzales citing a recent nationally representative ELSF survey. “With 5 million ELs in our public schools, this leaves 5 million students at a disadvantage." 

The performance of ELs varies significantly by state, with some states witnessing declines across the board for both ELs and non-ELs, while a few states report some improvements. In large urban districts, results remain troubling, with no significant increases for ELs and some districts reporting score drops. 

"The data suggests an urgent need for targeted interventions to support ELs in improving their academic performance and closing the achievement gap with non-ELs,” argues Gonzales. “Stronger educational materials and access to rigorous learning for multilingual learners are needed to help bring all underperforming students up to standard. Those who were already struggling have fallen even further behind.” 

NAEP isn't the only measure of student growth, however, it can be looked at alongside other local data to gauge how ELs are fairing in our schools.  It is critical for educational stakeholders to focus on strategies that enhance learning opportunities for ELs across all grade levels and subjects. 

“Collaborative efforts between education leaders, parents, and the community can facilitate a successful curriculum adoption process that can right the declining data,” said Gonzales. “Education leaders are on the front line of decision-making and can be advocates for a brighter future. The evidence is clear: what benefits multilingual learners also enhances the experience for all students, making quality materials essential for achieving educational equity." 

About ELSF
The English Learners Success Forum (ELSF) is a collaboration of researchers, teachers, district leaders, and funders who are passionate about improving the quality and accessibility of instructional materials for Multilingual Learners (MLLs). 

‍