‘National Report Card’ shows Austin ISD students returning to pre-pandemic levels

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Austin ISD student scores are higher than state, peer-districts, national charter students and the nationwide average, according to the latest testing cycle of the National Assessment of Educational Progress. 

Schools nationwide have spent years grappling with pandemic-related challenges. These results are an encouraging sign that Austin ISD has a strong academic foundation and learning is on the rise. 

NAEP is a reading and math assessment given to a sample of fourth and eighth-grade students nationwide to better understand performance across the country and states. The test is given every two years, with 2024 being the latest test. 

Austin ISD scores were not just higher, but significantly higher than other peer groups. 

  • The district scored significantly higher than the state in eighth-grade math and both reading levels. Austin ISD was significantly higher than national public schools in fourth-grade math. The district was significantly higher than the larger cities grouping and all Texas peer districts (Dallas, Houston, Fort Worth) in all grades and levels tested.

  • Student scores made small improvements from 2022. Fourth-grade math stood out and had significant learning gains. 

  • Comparisons to 2019 were similar to pre-pandemic levels providing an indication that student learning may be in recovery. There are also some opportunities for improvement, including eighth-grade math, which was significantly lower than 2019, suggesting additional support is needed to support these students long term.

Yes, and…gaps persist in scores for our marginalized and economically disadvantaged students. This data aligns with information in our Scorecard and statewide testing and continues to shape our strategic efforts. 

“The council applauds large city schools for their improvement in academic performance and the progress they are making in turning to pre-pandemic levels thanks to target investments that have addressed setbacks and driven recovery,” said Ray Hart, executive director of the Council of the Great City Schools.

Read our Austin ISD report on NAEP 2024, including the full findings, visualizations, and deep cuts into student groups. 

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