California Gubernatorial Candidate Responsible for Drop in Reading and Math Scores as Education Chief
California students’ math and reading proficiency levels decline under Tony Thurmond’s leadership
A top contender for California governor has overseen a concerning decline in reading and math scores. The latest test scores, released last week, reveal that even years after the COVID-19 classroom shutdowns, more than half of the state’s students are unable to read at grade level, while two-thirds are falling behind in math.
Under the leadership of Tony Thurmond, California’s education agency has reported a decrease in student performance. Last year, less than 47 percent of students met grade level for reading, marking a slight decline from the previous academic year. Additionally, only 35 percent of students demonstrated math proficiency in the 2022-23 school year, showing a marginal improvement of just over 1 percentage point from the previous year. In contrast, when Thurmond assumed office, nearly 50 percent of students read at grade level, with almost 40 percent proficient in math.
These test results could pose a significant challenge to Thurmond’s campaign to become California’s next governor. Despite increased funding for schools, with per-pupil spending reaching nearly $24,000, academic performance has dramatically declined.
“How is Tony Thurmond going to change those numbers?” questioned Lance Izumi, senior director of education studies at the Pacific Research Institute. Izumi emphasized that even the slight improvement in math performance is not promising, as it would take six decades to bring all students to grade level at this rate.
A representative for Thurmond did not provide a comment.
Thurmond, who enjoys support from the influential California Teachers Association, has focused on promoting equity, inclusion, and gender ideology in K-12 classrooms amidst the widespread decline in academic performance. While students continue to lag behind in reading, Thurmond has been involved in passing a law that imposes fines on school districts if they remove sexually explicit LGBT books.
Furthermore, Thurmond has secured funding to train teachers in supporting students’ gender transitions. He has enlisted organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and the Trevor Project to develop the curriculum, which will soon become mandatory for middle and high school teachers under a 2023 law.
Simultaneously, as the public schools chief, Thurmond has refused to take responsibility for the state’s prolonged classroom closures, which resulted in chronic absenteeism and the declining student performance highlighted by these scores. When asked about the closures, Thurmond stated that it was difficult to determine if they were a mistake. His Department of Education even attempted to silence researchers who testified in a lawsuit on behalf of low-income students affected by the closures, although they later reversed this decision due to criticism.
During Thurmond’s previous election, he attempted to delay the release of state test scores until after Election Day, raising suspicions of political motivations. However, public backlash prompted the education agency to reverse its decision.
What steps should be taken to address the high percentage of students unable to read at grade level and the decline in math proficiency?
Declined under his leadership. This decline in proficiency levels is deeply concerning and raises doubts about the effectiveness of Thurmond’s policies and priorities in improving education in the state.
One of the most alarming statistics is the high percentage of students unable to read at grade level. Education experts agree that reading proficiency is a fundamental skill that serves as a building block for success in all other subjects. If students are unable to read proficiently, they will inevitably struggle in other areas such as math, science, and social studies. With more than half of California’s students unable to meet this basic requirement, it is clear that urgent action needs to be taken.
Furthermore, the decline in math proficiency is equally troubling. Math is not only crucial for everyday life but is also a key indicator of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The fact that two-thirds of California students are falling behind in math indicates a systemic problem within the education system. It raises questions about the quality of instruction, the curriculum being taught, and the support provided to students to ensure their success in this subject.
Thurmond’s leadership in California’s education agency has not yielded positive results in terms of student achievement. Despite the slight improvement in math proficiency, the overall decline in both reading and math scores indicates a lack of effective strategies and support for students. It also raises concerns about the allocation and use of funds in the education system. With per-pupil spending reaching nearly $24,000, the fact that proficiency levels continue to decline is a clear indication that money alone is not the solution.
California’s students deserve better. They deserve leaders who prioritize their education and well-being, and who are dedicated to implementing effective policies and strategies to ensure their success. Thurmond’s track record in improving proficiency levels has fallen short, and it is crucial for voters and stakeholders in the education system to consider this when evaluating his suitability for the role of governor.
It is imperative that California’s next governor prioritizes education and addresses the underlying issues leading to declining proficiency levels. Whether it be through reforming the curriculum, providing additional support and resources to students, or investing in professional development for teachers, strong and effective leadership is needed to reverse this concerning trend. California’s future and the success of its students depend on making education a top priority and taking meaningful action to address these challenges.
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