In a recent meeting of the North Dakota House Education Committee, discussions centered on the pressing issue of mathematics education in the state, particularly in light of declining performance metrics. The meeting highlighted the results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) assessments, which indicated that North Dakota's fourth and eighth graders are struggling in math, with proficiency rates showing a concerning downward trend since 2019.

The committee noted that while North Dakota's fourth graders scored slightly above the national average in 2022, the overall proficiency rate stood at only 47%. The situation was even more alarming for eighth graders, whose scores not only dropped from previous years but also reflected a significant gap in essential skills necessary for future academic and career success. This decline has prompted state education officials to take action.

In response to these challenges, the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction launched the "Greater Math in North Dakota" initiative in spring 2022, funded through COVID-related discretionary funds. This program aims to enhance math education by providing professional development for teachers and support for schools across the state. The initiative is set to conclude in spring 2025 and has involved collaboration with various educational entities, including REL Central, which assists in coaching and resource allocation.

Despite the program's intentions, educators have reported challenges in participation, particularly due to fatigue and staffing shortages. The meeting underscored the importance of engaging teachers in professional development outside of regular school hours, a task made difficult by the current educational climate. Some districts have even reassessed the effectiveness of certain resources, indicating a need for more tailored support.

The committee's discussions also touched on broader issues affecting student engagement and educator retention, suggesting that these factors may contribute to the ongoing decline in math proficiency. As the state continues to navigate these challenges, the outcomes of the Greater Math initiative will be closely monitored, with hopes that it will serve as a foundation for improving math education in North Dakota. The next set of NAEP results is anticipated at the end of January 2024, which will provide further insight into the effectiveness of these efforts.