Test results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) provide a snapshot of how students in grade 4, 8, and 12 are performing in key areas of learning (i.e., reading, math, writing). Parents of children with learning disabilities (LD) and others who struggle with learning should know what these tests are all about and should talk to educators about their child’s status.
Students with LD should be performing at “proficient” or above on these measures (not at “basic” or “below basic” levels).
“…too many children, particularly those with learning disabilities, do not learn to read proficiently in the primary grades. National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores over the past few years suggest that almost 40% of fourth grade students read below the "basic level" (defined as "partial mastery of prerequisite knowledge and skills that are fundamental for proficient work at each grade").” (Source: Teaching Reading to Teens with Learning Disabilities)
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has developed these free resources especially for parents about the NAEP results, also known as “The Nation’s Report Card”:
The most recent test results released were for the 2011 Computer-Based Writing Assessment. You can view those results and others by visiting
The Nation’s Report Card.
Important note: When reviewing the results, keep in mind that “students with disabilities” means any student with a disability who may be taking the exam – not only those with LD.
Parents: Be aware… be concerned…. be outspoken about your child’s status on these (and other) measures of progress.
Additional resource on LD.org:
Teaching Reading to Teens with Learning Disabilities
My child is struggling 
Now that my child has 
