A consistent theme of teacher survey responses was the need to adjust academic standards in response to the learning delay as well as account for student mental health.
TJ Martinell
The Center Square Washington
As the State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, or OSPI, looks to revise its academic standards for the K-12 education system, a recent teacher survey revealed the effects of the 2020-2021 lockdowns continue to impact student learning.
The survey conducted in February received more than 5,400 participants offering feedback regarding changes to standards for English, math and science. Almost 70% of them had six or more years of experience, with 36.7% having 20 or more years of teaching experience.
Out of the 10,000 comments submitted offering feedback on new standards for the various subjects, 78 of them specifically cited the continued effects of the COVID-19 lockdowns on students. A consistent theme among them was the need to adjust academic standards in response to the learning delay as well as account for student mental health.
“COVID greatly impacted students in terms of academic growth and we cannot continue teaching the way we taught before COVID,” one teacher commented. “Yes, it is critically important to teach to the standards. But we also need to reflect on what changes, accommodations we need to make to make sure that ALL students succeed and the achievement gap doesn’t widen any more than it already has.”
Another teacher wrote that “our students took a big hit with covid. They are incredibly behind. While some students could keep up or even move ahead, the majority would benefit from stepping back a grade or two in standards. I would appreciate consideration or modifying our standards to match the current learning needs of our students.”
Other teacher comments included:
“Most of the students are now significantly behind in math, due to COVID. Pushing the standards as if they had not missed anything has been a struggle.”
“I think we need to address the fact that COVID blew all of these out of the water and that many students are behind, some several grades, in proficiency in these standards. There needs to be fewer standards that are more clear and relevant [sic] to where learners are NOW. Otherwise, this feels like a waste of time and energy until these gaps are addressed.”
“Students are behind due to COVID and teachers are struggling to still teach the CURRENT grade level standards due to large gaps from COVID. This is not the kid nor the teacher’s fault – but we cannot just cut standards without official direction and still move students forward in their learning.”
“I’m so tired of hearing that another child attempted suicide since Covid. I have many EMS providers in my family and the youngest successful suicide was 8. EIGHT!!! Our young people were and continue to be traumatized by the pandemic and the isolation it caused. If OSPI is serious about teaching the whole child, academics need to take a back seat while we work on mental health, coping strategies, and relationship building. Dead kids don’t need math.”
The OSPI is expected to finalize its new standards by early spring next year.
This report was first published by The Center Square Washington.
Also read:
- Obituary for Lucille ‘Erma’ Christenson Madore – April 22,1924-March 13, 2026
Known for her love of music and family, Lucille ‘Erma’ Christenson Madore lived through nearly 102 years and leaves a large, grateful legacy in Vancouver. - Fiscal fallout: $375 million bond debt indirectly funding operating budget
Shifting $375 million from a loan fund impacts local infrastructure as Washington state covers operating costs with bond debt, prompting concern among officials and advocacy groups. - Lawsuit aims to block new eligibility requirements for WA sheriffs
Four sheriffs are suing over a state law that sets new eligibility rules, arguing it undermines voter authority by allowing removal for certification issues. - Opinion: The growing gap between public voice and political power
Todd Myers describes how large-scale protest and sign-ins often fail to sway state leaders, and argues authentic influence is most likely found through local action. - City of Battle Ground seeks applicants for Salary Commission vacancy
Battle Ground seeks a resident to join its independent Salary Commission, which reviews compensation and health benefits for local elected officials through 2027. - Opinion: Who is winning the race for affordable power?
Hydroelectric power keeps Washington competitive, but new laws and carbon pricing are driving up electricity costs for residents each year. - Vancouver Fire Department assists with Columbia River Marina fire response
Vancouver Fire Department joined Clark-Cowlitz and Scappoose crews to help fight a vessel and dock fire at Goble Marina, assisting in river operations where one boat sank and another was partially submerged.
