MA SAT Trends: Post-COVID Divergence

• SAT participation dropped 56% in 2019-20 due to COVID-19 pandemic disruptions
• Participation has stabilized at ~50,000 tests annually (down 32% from pre-pandemic levels)
• Overall average scores have increased 24 points (1,104 → 1,128) since 2016
• Note: 2020-21 data is not available (testing year skipped)

The chart reveals a striking pattern: Reading/Writing and Math scores diverged sharply after the pandemic. Before COVID (2016-2019), both sections tracked closely together within 2-3 points. After the 2020-21 testing gap, R/W scores surged (+19 points since 2016) while Math scores barely budged (+5 points).

What might explain this? Several factors likely contributed:

• Math's sequential nature: Math skills build on each other—missing foundational concepts during remote learning had compounding effects that slowed recovery
• Remote learning challenges: Studies show math instruction suffered more during virtual schooling, as it's harder to teach problem-solving through a screen
• Reading gains from lockdowns: Some research suggests students read more independently during the pandemic, potentially boosting literacy skills
• Recovery priorities: Schools may have prioritized literacy recovery programs, which are often easier to implement than math interventions

This divergence mirrors national trends and represents one of the most significant educational impacts of the pandemic era.