— As of September 9, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has released the 2024 Nation's Report Card (NAEP), confirming a sobering reality: student performance in reading, math, and science remains below pre COVID baselines, and in many cases continues to decline.
RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. - Oct. 7, 2025 - PRLog -- According to coverage from NPR, 8th-grade science scores dropped by 4 points and 12th-grade math and reading each fell about 3 points compared to 2019, underscoring the lack of full recovery since the pandemic's educational disruptions.
These national declines mirror struggles right here at home in Arkansas.
- On the 2024 NAEP, 4th-grade Arkansas students averaged a scale score of 230, compared to the national average of 237. Nation's Report Card
- In reading and math, Arkansas trails the national average in both 4th and 8th grades. Office for Education Policy (OEP)+2Nation's Report Card+2
- Arkansas' reading scores in particular have slipped to historic lows, with 4th grade reading currently at its lowest in 21 years. Office for Education Policy (OEP)
- In the broader picture of educational recovery from 2019 to 2024, Arkansas ranks 23rd among states in math recovery and 19th in reading. Education Recovery Scorecard
These numbers are not just data points—they represent real children falling further behind, widening gaps, and communities demanding a better path forward.
What the Homework Debate Reveals—and How Huntington Helps
A recent EdWeek article asked: Should students be required to do homework? In a poll of more than 600 teachers, responses were nearly evenly split: 42% said "yes," 37% "no," and 21% "sometimes." The core of the debate often isn't whether homework is assigned, but how much, what kind, and how it may unfairly penalize students without strong learning support at home. (Source: EdWeek)
At Huntington, we believe every student deserves high-quality, targeted academic support that doesn't simply dump more stress on families. We complement—not replace—classroom learning so students can reinforce foundational skills during structured, guided sessions rather than overburden families with endless night-time homework battles.
Why Huntington's Role Is More Critical Than Ever in Arkansas
- Closing the post‑COVID gap: For students whose scores haven't rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, Huntington's individualized program fills in missing foundational understanding. In effect, we become part of the recovery engine for Arkansas students to achieve academic success.
- Bridging between school and home: Because many schools are constrained on time and resources, Huntington offers consistent, expert reinforcement that teachers would support—without adding undue homework stress on students or families.
- Localized, accredited, trusted: As the locally owned and operated Huntington in Russellville, we hold Middle States accreditation, reinforcing our commitment to quality. PR.com We aim to be a hands‑on partner with schools, parents, and communities to raise achievement.
- Supporting all levels: Whether a student is slightly behind or significantly struggling, our programs adapt to their individual needs—whether in reading, math, or preparation for high-stakes assessments.
A Call to Arkansas Parents, Educators, and Policymakers
This is news—and it's urgent. The 2024 NAEP results confirm a national and statewide lag in learning recovery. For Arkansas to chart a better future, we must mobilize supplemental support aggressively. Huntington Learning Center of Russellville stands ready to partner with families and schools to lift our students, campus by campus, classroom by classroom, child by child.
Huntington offers a proven academic recovery path. Let us help Arkansas students not just catch up, but excel. For more information or to schedule an Academic Evaluation, please call us at 1-800 CAN-LEARN or visit us online at https://huntingtonhelps.com/locations/russellville-ar.
About Huntington
Huntington Learning Center is the nation's leading tutoring and test prep provider. We offer customized learning programs in person, online, and hybrid options. Our certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington's programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Founded in 1977, Huntington's mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.HuntingtonHelps.com and for franchising opportunities, visit www.HuntingtonFranchise.com.
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Source: Huntington Learning Center of Russellville
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