Protecting and Promoting School Choice

EFI Publications

Oregon Debates Short School Year Amid Low Test Scores

Oregon’s recent state test results show slight improvements in math and English since 2024 but remain far below pre-COVID standards. The National Assessment of Educational Progress also indicates poor performance. In response, the state is considering extending its relatively short school year to address these dismal academic outcomes.

Key Points

  • State test scores improved slightly but lag behind pre-pandemic levels.
  • Oregon has one of the shortest school years in the U.S., prompting debate on extension.
  • National assessments confirm ongoing academic struggles post-COVID.

Implications for Educational Freedom

This situation underscores the limitations of government-run public schools in delivering quality education, highlighting the need for school choice mechanisms like vouchers and ESAs to empower parents with alternatives. It also raises concerns about potential government overreach in mandating longer school years without addressing underlying systemic issues.

Source: Amid Dismal Test Scores, Oregon Weighs Its Short School Year

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