WV Students Excel in Reading and Math Growth

West Virginia Students Shine in National Education Rankings

Students in West Virginia have made significant strides in education, with recent data highlighting impressive achievements. According to the latest education scorecard, West Virginia students ranked 8th nationally in reading growth in 2025. This achievement places the state among the top 10 in the country for reading progress, showcasing a strong commitment to academic improvement.

The success isn’t limited to reading alone. Mathematics scores have also seen a steady increase since 2022, indicating a broader trend of educational growth across multiple subjects. Dr. Erika Klose, Director of Academic Support for the West Virginia Board of Education, emphasized the importance of these improvements.

“When we raise up our literacy and numeracy skills with our students, everything else will also rise,” said Klose. Her statement reflects the belief that foundational skills in reading and math are critical to overall academic success.

The Role of the Third-Grade Success Act

A key factor in this progress is the Third-Grade Success Act. This legislation aims to ensure that students in West Virginia achieve grade-level proficiency in reading and mathematics by the end of third grade. The act includes assessments designed to monitor student progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed.

Klose highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “It’s incredibly exciting. I think it’s a testimony to a huge implementation plan that has been put together, through a large team that starts here at the West Virginia Department of Education that works with literacy and numeracy specialists that work regionally and support our county school districts.”

The act is part of a larger strategy to improve educational outcomes by focusing on early childhood development. By ensuring that students meet key benchmarks by third grade, the state is laying a strong foundation for future academic success.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of the Third-Grade Success Act and other educational initiatives is the result of collaboration between various stakeholders. The West Virginia Department of Education, along with literacy and numeracy specialists, works closely with school districts to implement effective teaching strategies and provide necessary resources.

This collaborative approach has led to measurable improvements in student performance. Klose noted that the efforts of educators and administrators have played a vital role in this progress. “At the end of the day, the highest achievement is seeing students and educators alike blossom under this new plan for years to come,” she said.

Ongoing Commitment to Educational Excellence

While the current achievements are commendable, the focus remains on sustaining and building upon these gains. The state continues to invest in professional development for teachers, updated curriculum materials, and targeted interventions for students who need additional support.

West Virginia’s educational leaders are committed to fostering an environment where students can thrive. With continued investment and strategic planning, the state is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory in national education rankings.

As the education landscape evolves, West Virginia’s dedication to improving literacy and numeracy skills ensures that students are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in both academic and real-world settings. The progress made so far is a testament to the hard work and dedication of educators, students, and community members across the state.