In a development that surprises absolutely no one paying attention, public education test scores have taken a nosedive following the COVID-19 pandemic. Yes, the same institutions that brought you prolonged school closures and remote ‘learning’ are now scratching their heads over declining student performance. Who could have seen this coming?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, average scores for 9-year-olds in 2022 declined 5 points in reading and 7 points in mathematics compared to 2020. This marks the largest average score decline in reading since 1990 and the first-ever score decline in mathematics. Decades of educational progress wiped out in just two years.

But don’t worry; the experts have it all figured out. They’re convening panels, drafting reports, and proposing more funding to study the problem. Because clearly, what we need is more bureaucracy to tell us what any parent with common sense already knows: keeping kids out of classrooms for extended periods is detrimental to their education.

The pandemic’s impact on learning has been devastating, with students across the country experiencing significant setbacks. In 2023-24, the gap between pre- and post-COVID test score averages widened by an average of 36% in reading and 18% in math. Yet, some school districts are patting themselves on the back for modest improvements, as if a slight rebound from rock bottom is cause for celebration.

Take, for instance, the recent data from Texas. The 2022 National Assessment of Educational Progress shows that while Texas is recovering in reading, much work remains in math. But instead of addressing the root causes, such as the inefficacy of prolonged remote learning and the lack of accountability in public schools, officials are more focused on maintaining the status quo.

Meanwhile, parents are increasingly advocating for school choice, seeking alternatives to the failing public education system. A recent poll reveals that a significant majority of Americans, including both Democrats and Republicans, support using federal tax credits to allow children to attend schools of their choice, including private institutions. Yet, Democratic leaders, beholden to teachers’ unions, continue to oppose such measures, prioritizing political alliances over children’s education.

The decline in educational performance isn’t just a domestic issue; it’s placing American students behind their international peers. Recent assessments reveal that U.S. students are falling behind countries like Singapore, South Korea, Britain, and Poland in mathematics and science. But instead of a national outcry and a call to action, there’s a deafening silence from policymakers more concerned with appeasing special interest groups than ensuring our children receive a quality education.

It’s time to face the uncomfortable truth: the public education system, as it stands, is failing our children. The pandemic didn’t create these problems; it merely exposed and exacerbated them. Decades of bureaucratic bloat, resistance to reform, and an aversion to accountability have led us to this point. It’s no wonder Trump wants to abolish the Department of Education. States know what’s best for its children, don’t you think?

Parents, it’s time to take control of your children’s education. Advocate for school choice, demand accountability from your local school boards, and don’t be swayed by the empty promises of those who have failed to deliver time and time again. Our children’s future depends on it.