Student test scores dropped dramatically last year. Here's why it was expected

Statewide test scores for reading and math have dropped significantly in Oklahoma public schools since the state returned to more rigorous scoring , according to results the state Department of Education released publicly on Monday.

In the 2024-25 school year, only 27% of third graders were classified as proficient or advanced in reading while 51% were the year before. A similar difference is evident in math testing results, with 33% of Oklahoma third graders hitting grade-level targets, despite 38% doing so in 2023-24.

State officials have warned the lower scores are not the result of worse academic performance, but rather a reflection of more rigorous expectations.

“This year’s test results don’t mean that Oklahoma students are doing worse,” said Megan Oftedal, executive directo