The average ACT composite score has reached a new low in the modern era. The class of 2023 achieved an average score of 19.5 out of a possible 36. In previous years, 19 has been considered a median or average score. However, this marks the sixth consecutive year of declining composite scores. This latest score is the lowest recorded in 30 years. The ACT’s chief competitor, the SAT, has also witnessed decreasing scores. These two tests serve as the nation’s premier college entrance exams and higher education institutions utilize these scores to determine a student’s college readiness.

So, what conclusions can we draw from the decline in scores? It’s evident that students today are less prepared for college than they were just a few years ago. The primary contributor to this decline is clear: the pandemic. The COVID-19 school closures have been identified as the most significant factor contributing to declining scores across all annual exams. Although ACT scores have been falling for six consecutive years, the decline accelerated during the pandemic. This is not a new revelation; we’ve known for years that the cohort of students affected by COVID would lag behind. However, despite the substantial funding and remediation efforts dedicated to this issue, it appears that they are not catching up.

As a teacher who worked before, during, and after the pandemic, I believe we should treat this situation as a five-alarm fire. No, planes will not fall from the sky because a graduating class scored a 19.5 instead of a 21. However, as someone on the front lines, I understand the magnitude of what these students have missed. I know how little math was taught during e-learning, and I know how few students participated in the limited instruction that was provided. I am familiar with the skills rising 8th graders used to possess when they entered my class and what they are unable to do now.

If we do not take action now, this problem will persist through generations. Extensive research demonstrates that even moderate differences in educational levels can have substantial adverse effects. If this is a matter of concern, we cannot afford to wait because every year, another cohort of COVID-impacted students will graduate… whether they are ready or not.