In November 2003, the National Center for Education Statistics released the report of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results for reading and math in grades 4 and 8. A summary of the percentage of students performing at or above four achievement levels is provided below.

Achievement Levels:

1. below basic (not defined, but less than partial mastery)
2. basic (partial mastery of fundamental skills and knowledge)
3. proficient (solid academic performance)
4. advanced (superior performance).

The full math report is available at http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/mathematics/results2003/

The full reading report is available at http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/reading/