Tennessee Celebrates Math Gains, Outperforms National Average

TDOE Celebrates April as Mathematics & Statistics Awareness Month

Wednesday, April 01, 2026 | 01:00pm

Tennessee Students Outperform National Average, Demonstrating Key Gains in Math

Nashville, TN– Throughout April, the Tennessee Department of Education invites Tennesseans to celebrate Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month, proclaimed by Governor Bill Lee. The department will spotlight historic math gains in achievement driven by the state’s focused commitment to rigorous academic standards, educator support, mathematics resources, and a strong accountability system.

Recent assessment data show Tennessee students continue to make ongoing progress in mathematics. The 2024‑25 TCAP Assessment reported proficiency increases in every grade level, including a gain of more than five percentage points among sixth‑grade students. Results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), or Nation’s Report Card, showed fourth‑ and eighth‑grade Tennessee students performing above the national average, with the state recording the highest improvement rate in the nation for eighth‑grade mathematics in 2024.

“Tennessee’s historic progress in math achievement is the result of a strong statewide commitment to student success, thanks to the General Assembly's partnership and dedicated teachers,” said Gov. Lee. “In April, we are proud to celebrate our continued commitment to mathematics to ensure every student has the opportunity to build a strong foundation to succeed.”

These gains have been supported by strategic investments in math education, including the Math Implementation Network (MIN), now in its second year, which provides districts with professional learning on the implementation of high‑quality instructional materials (HQIM). The department also offers a variety of math and statistics resources to support classroom instruction and additional training opportunities.

“Tennessee continues to see historic gains in math achievement thanks to the hard work of districts and educators, the leadership of Governor Bill Lee, and the Tennessee General Assembly, whose continued commitment to strengthening math instruction has led to meaningful progress in mathematics,” said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. “We’re building on this momentum by ensuring all students develop a strong foundation in math from the earliest grades. A solid foundation sets students up for success in Algebra I, a critical milestone that opens the door to more advanced coursework and prepares them for success in college, career, and military pathways.”

Throughout the month, the department and Marty the Mathematician will highlight math success stories across Tennessee. Tennesseans are encouraged to join the celebration on social media using #MathWithMarty.  Learn more about Tennessee’s commitment to mathematics excellence on the department’s Math webpage and about learning acceleration on its webpage.

For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, contact EDU.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.