September 14, 2023
Ohio’s new school report cards show important progress in student learning, but they also show there is much work to be done to help to all students catch up in math and literacy from setbacks caused by the pandemic.
Ohio Excels applauds educators’ efforts to increase academic achievement overall. However, student performance in reading and especially mathematics remains below the levels we saw three years ago. Furthermore, the report cards show that the most significant setbacks are being experienced by students from diverse racial and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our students were struggling prior to the pandemic, and they continue to struggle now.
Investments in the state budget aligned to the science of reading hold great promise, and we must continue to work together to ensure students receive the supports and interventions they need to become proficient in both math and reading, such as high- dosage tutoring and other proven interventions. We must be urgent and committed to data-driven strategies moving forward; our students and families are counting on us. Ohio Excels and our coalition of business leaders are committed to continuing to do our part to help address this challenge.
About Ohio Excels: Ohio Excels is a non-partisan, non-profit organization created in 2018 by leaders of Ohio’s business community who are committed to helping improve educational outcomes for Ohio’s students and ensuring that all K-12 schools prepare students for success in the next step of their lives, whether it is higher education, the military or the workforce.