Impact of the pandemic on Texas’ youngest students observed by educators

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on education, especially for students who started school during or after the pandemic. According to Plains Independent School District Superintendent Robert McClain, these students are finding it harder to say goodbye to their parents when they drop them off at school. Additionally, teachers like Heather Harris have noticed that third graders are struggling with reading, prompting the district to hire a reading specialist to assist these young learners. San Antonio ISD Superintendent Jaime Aquino also highlighted the challenges students are facing in math, particularly in developing basic mathematical fluency.

Texas school administrators, educators, and education policy experts are concerned about the academic performance of students in the earliest grades post-pandemic. A recent study by Curriculum Associates Research revealed that younger students, such as those enrolled in kindergarten or first grade in 2021, are significantly behind in both reading and math compared to their peers before the pandemic. This lag in academic progress could be attributed to disruptions in early childhood experiences, difficulties in building foundational skills, challenges with virtual learning, and inadequate resources allocated to support young learners.

One of the key issues impacting early-grade students is low attendance, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic. San Antonio ISD’s Aquino emphasized the importance of students being present in school to ensure foundational learning. Furthermore, low pre-K enrollment during the pandemic has also contributed to academic struggles among young learners. Research shows that children who attend pre-K are more likely to be prepared for kindergarten, underscoring the importance of early childhood education.

The decline in pre-K enrollment in Texas from 2019-2020 to the following year has raised concerns about the long-term impact on academic achievement. Plains ISD teacher Heather Harris highlighted the challenge of helping third-grade students catch up once they fall behind, as teachers may not have sufficient time to focus on developing foundational skills. Education analyst Mary Lynn Pruneda noted the lack of consistent data on the academic performance of younger students in Texas, making it difficult to address the issue effectively.

To address the academic struggles of early-grade students, experts recommend increasing funding for public education to hire and retain high-quality teachers. High-impact tutoring programs, similar to those mandated for grades 3-8, could also benefit young learners in developing essential skills. It is crucial for the Texas Legislature to prioritize education funding and support initiatives that target the academic needs of students in the earliest grades.

In conclusion, the challenges faced by young learners in Texas post-pandemic underscore the importance of early childhood education and targeted interventions to support academic growth. By investing in resources, teacher training, and support programs, the state can help ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically and thrive in their educational journey.