Gov. Kim Reynolds says improved testing scores prove states can take on federal education funding

DES MOINES, Iowa —

Gov. Kim Reynolds said Wednesday her administration’s efforts to implement “science of reading” and math education efforts have resulted in higher scores for Iowa students on national assessments.

Reynolds and school officials held a news conference to celebrate the recent gains for Iowa on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), used to rate student progress around the country. Reynolds said Iowa students’ scores have returned to pre-pandemic proficiency levels in reading, writing and math, and have exceeded previous levels in science.

Reynolds said these improvements showcase why she believes President Donald Trump and U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s plan to send funding directly to states instead of going through the federal Department of E