Chicago Students Struggle with Reading and Math
Chicago Public Schools students are facing difficulties in reading and math, with only 2-in-5 reading at grade level and about 1-in-4 performing math proficiently.
According to the Illinois Report Card released on October 30, 43% of CPS students in third through eighth grade read at grade level in 2025, and 27% could perform math proficiently.
Among 11th graders, only 40% were proficient in reading and 25% in math on the ACT. These proficiency rates come after the state board of education lowered the scores needed to be considered proficient in reading and math in 2025.
Absenteeism remains high within CPS, adding to the concerns.
Illinois’ comeback story starts here.
Author's summary: Chicago students struggle with reading and math despite lowered standards.
- 43% of CPS students in third through eighth grade read at grade level
- 27% of CPS students in third through eighth grade perform math proficiently
- 40% of 11th graders are proficient in reading on the ACT
- 25% of 11th graders are proficient in math on the ACT