Oklahoma Ranks Near Bottom in National Education Scores

Oklahoma students continue to struggle in reading and math, ranking near the bottom in national test scores for 4th and 8th grade. Education advocates point to underfunding, teacher pay, and a mass exodus of educators as key reasons for the decline. The state ranks 47th in both 4th and 8th grade reading, 40th in 4th grade math, and 45th in 8th grade math. Critics say political rhetoric and lack of classroom support are compounding the problem. The state is responding with expanded tutoring programs and pay incentives to retain teachers.