The U.S. Department of Education has issued a statement regarding preparations for the 2026 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the Nation's Report Card. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon emphasized the significance of NAEP as a benchmark for evaluating the American education system.
"NAEP (the Nation’s Report Card) is the benchmark by which we evaluate the state of the American education system. It is a critical tool for parents, educators, and experts to assess our students’ preparedness and advise on necessary interventions. As we continue with our final mission to return education to the states, I am committed to providing states with the tools and best practices to advance the educational achievement of our nation’s students," stated Secretary McMahon.
The Department affirmed its commitment to ensuring NAEP provides valuable data on learning across the United States. Plans are in place for the 2026 assessments in reading and mathematics to be conducted in January of that year.
The National Assessment Governing Board will remain responsible for overseeing the NAEP program, with Lesley Muldoon continuing as the Board’s Executive Director following her recent reappointment. "The agency congratulates Director Muldoon on her reappointment and thanks her for her continued dedication and leadership," the statement noted.
In related developments, the National Center for Education Statistics has reached out to Chief State School Officers with details on upcoming dates and information regarding the 2026 NAEP assessment. States play a crucial role as partners in the administration of NAEP.
