Iowa Analyzes Its Fall From The Top

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Full report

In the early 1990s, the Cold War ended, Back to the Future III was in theaters, and Iowa led the nation in reading and mathematics. Times have changed. A decade into the 21st century, Iowa has conceded its place at the top. During the past 20 years, achievement trends illustrate Iowa’s slide from a national leader in PK-12 education to a national average-sometimes below average-performer as other states (and nations) have accelerated past the state.

Iowa students’ futures are at risk. Collectively, Iowa students are not hitting the mark in mathematics and reading competency. Sure, Iowa has its share of super-achievers. But the mass of Iowa students—not just underprivileged or minority students, but many of the majority white, relatively affluent students as well—are falling short of what is needed to attain quality jobs, growing incomes, and secure livelihoods in today’s globally competitive world.

To regain its position as a top education system in the nation, Iowa must support the challenges of the future. The path forward must include:

1. Clear standards with high expectations and accountability for results;

2. A fair and aligned assessment system which supports feedback at all levels;

3. Highly effective educators; and

4. Innovative learning environments enriched by technology.

Iowa’s schools have achieved great things throughout past decades and have a proud and strong foundation. Certainly, tearing the system apart and starting anew is not the answer. Rather, the state needs to build from its position of strength and move decisively toward new goals with new methods, resources, and standards. This report highlights Iowa’s past accomplishments, reviews longitudinal trend data, pinpoints the impact of past and current performance, and outlines opportunities for improvement in the future.