The Fox News Rundown Extra: 'Grade Inflation' and Why American Students Are Falling Behind
Dec 13, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jeff Selingo, a higher-education expert and author, sheds light on alarming trends in American education. He reveals that many students arrive at college lacking basic math skills, prompting universities to offer remedial classes. Selingo attributes this decline to grade inflation and reduced accountability. He also highlights the impact of technology and societal shifts on educational readiness. Additionally, he discusses the rising requests for special accommodations and emphasizes the need for better K–12 preparation to align with job market demands.
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Hidden Math Decline
- The U.S. is facing a systemic math problem that predates COVID and shows up in college remedial enrollments.
- Grade inflation and lowered K–12 accountability have masked declining skills, especially in math.
Grades Don't Always Reflect Mastery
- Grades have steadily risen in high school over the last two decades, often disconnecting from actual mastery.
- Teachers may inflate grades to avoid conflicts, producing GPAs that mislead colleges about student ability.
Reevaluate Math Expectations
- Admissions offices should reassess which math competencies truly matter for college success and life.
- Stop treating advanced calculus as a universal marker and align requirements with real major and career needs.
