2012 PROGRAMME FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ASSESSMENT (PISA)

CER Press Release
Washington, DC
December 3, 2013

Kara Kerwin, president of The Center for Education Reform, released the following statement on the 2012 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA):

“The United States’ dismal scores on the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) was once again expected due to the inability of lawmakers at all levels of government to adequately embrace proven reforms to increase student achievement.

“The whole point of PISA is to transfer the griping about our low placement into action that results in improving America’s education system; examining solutions that incorporate choice and accountability are paramount.

“The 2012 PISA scores of US students actually decreased in all three subject areas from 2009, with 18 education systems scoring higher in math, science and reading. This drop represents not only a threat to our economic competitiveness but also demonstrates that the system as it has been functioning for decades is no longer viable.

“As is the case with any release of test sores and other indicators of student growth, we continue to wait for more policymakers to recognize the potential for achievement gains when access to data and options is given to parents. But far too many families are currently trapped in failing systems, and don’t have the luxury of waiting for policymakers to enact real reform.

“With all the available resources and innovation that occurs within the United States, it’s inexcusable that we have not yet embraced the necessary reforms to significantly boost student outcomes.”