Back to School Check-In: What Indiana's Latest Student Achievement Data Means for Families Across the Midwest
As a new school year begins, many families are buying backpacks, sharpening pencils, and preparing for the excitement of a fresh start.
But before we look ahead, it's worth taking a moment to look back.
How are our students really doing?
The answer can help parents make informed decisions early in the school year—before small learning gaps become larger challenges.
What the Nation's Report Card Tells Us
Every few years, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)—often called The Nation's Report Card—measures how students across the United States are performing in core academic subjects.
The results provide a snapshot of where students are succeeding and where additional support may be needed.
For Indiana, there is encouraging news.
According to the 2024 NAEP results:
Fourth-grade students in Indiana scored 240 in mathematics, compared with the national average of 237.
Fourth-grade students scored 220 in reading, compared with the national average of 214.
Eighth-grade students averaged 278 in mathematics, above the national average of 272.
These results show that Indiana students are performing above the national average in several key areas. That's something worth celebrating.
However, the data also reminds us that there is still room for improvement.
For example, only 34% of Indiana fourth graders reached the NAEP Proficient level in reading, while 31% of Indiana eighth graders reached the Proficient level in mathematics. NAEP also reports that achievement gaps remain between student groups, including differences associated with economic disadvantage.
Why These Numbers Matter
It's easy to assume that if a child earns decent grades, everything is on track.
But statewide assessments remind us that learning is a journey.
Just as athletes review game film to improve and businesses study performance reports to grow, parents can use educational data as a reminder to ask an important question:
"What skills should my child strengthen this year?"
Waiting until report cards, parent-teacher conferences, or standardized testing season often means valuable time has already been lost.
Beginning the school year with a plan allows students to build confidence before they begin struggling.
The Earlier the Support, the Better
Many parents don't seek academic support until a child begins falling behind.
By that point, frustration has often replaced confidence.
Starting early changes the conversation.
Instead of catching up, students have an opportunity to stay on pace—or even get ahead.
Whether your child needs help with:
Reading comprehension
Writing skills
Math confidence
Study habits
Homework support
early intervention can make a meaningful difference throughout the school year.
Tutoring Isn't Just for Students Who Are Struggling
One of the biggest misconceptions about tutoring is that it's only for students earning poor grades.
In reality, tutoring benefits students across the academic spectrum.
Some families use tutoring to:
Reinforce classroom learning.
Build confidence.
Prepare for advanced coursework.
Improve organization and study habits.
Get ready for college entrance exams.
Challenge gifted learners who want to go further.
A tutor provides individualized attention that is often difficult to achieve in a classroom with many students.
Finding the Right Fit
Families across the Midwest have many excellent tutoring options, including independent tutors, school-based programs, community organizations, and online learning platforms.
If you're located in Northwest Indiana or the surrounding Midwest region, Rising Stars' Academy offers personalized tutoring in:
Reading
Writing
Mathematics
Homework support
Academic enrichment
SAT/ACT preparation
We also provide virtual tutoring, making it possible for students outside our local area to receive personalized instruction from home.
No matter which tutoring provider you choose, the important step is choosing one that matches your child's learning style, goals, and needs.
Start the School Year with Confidence
A new school year is the perfect opportunity to ask:
Is my child reading confidently?
Do they feel comfortable with math concepts?
Can they clearly communicate their ideas through writing?
Are they building the skills they'll need later this year?
The sooner these questions are answered, the sooner students can receive the support they need.
Because growth begins with knowing where you are—and deciding where you want to go next.
If you're in Northwest Indiana and would like to learn more about Rising Stars' Academy's tutoring programs, we'd love to help your child build confidence from the very beginning of the school year.
References
The Nation's Report Card – Indiana State Profile Indiana State Profile (NAEP)
2024 Indiana Grade 4 Reading Snapshot Report Indiana Grade 4 Reading Snapshot (2024)
2024 Indiana Grade 8 Mathematics Snapshot Report Indiana Grade 8 Mathematics Snapshot (2024)
