Today, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce released its annual school report card, which is based on data from the 2023–24 school year. Included are five-star ratings that provide parents and the public with a user-friendly overview of district and school performance. As customary, it also includes a wealth of data that shine light on where Ohio students stand academically and their progress over time.
“School report cards always ground us in reality,” said Aaron Churchill, Ohio Research Director for the Thomas B. Fordham Institute. “This year’s data are another wake-up call, as they show too many Ohio students continuing to struggle in math and reading.”
As the chart below indicates, just 64.5 percent of Ohio third graders achieved reading proficiency last school year, while 55.9 percent were proficient in algebra I. Proficiency in these grades and subjects have risen since the pandemic low in 2020–21, yet still remain slightly behind pre-pandemic levels.
Statewide proficiency rates for 3rd grade reading and high school algebra (2018–19 to 2023–24)
“Research demonstrates that academic proficiency is highly predictive of college and career success,” continued Churchill. “While there are bright spots—including upticks in third grade reading proficiency—there is still more work ahead to ensure that all students have the skills needed for life after high school.”
High rates of absenteeism continue to hold back academic progress. As the chart below indicates, 25.6 percent of Ohio students were chronically absent last year (missing more than 10 percent of the school year). While lower than peak absenteeism shortly after the pandemic, these data indicate continuing challenges with student disengagement.
Statewide chronic absenteeism rates (2018–19 to 2023–24)
“Students need to attend school regularly to get the most from their education,” said Churchill. “To their credit, Ohio policymakers have recognized the attendance crisis and recently pledged to cut chronic absenteeism by half in the next five years. To make good on this promise, state leaders will need to reestablish a clear expectation of daily attendance, while also enlisting parents who can help make sure children are getting to school every day.”
