U.S. education satisfaction hits record low in Gallup poll

Satisfaction with K-12 education in the United States has reached its lowest level since Gallup began tracking the metric in 1999. According to a recent Gallup poll, only 32% of Americans are satisfied with the quality of education, representing an 11-percentage-point decline over the last two years.

Dissatisfaction is widespread across political lines. While Republicans and independents frequently cite a lack of basic skill instruction, Democrats have also shown increased skepticism, with satisfaction among this group falling seven points in the past year. Democratic concerns often focus on funding levels and international comparisons.

In terms of specific competencies, Americans rated schools lowest on teaching critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as preparing students for success in the workforce. Conversely, schools received their highest ratings for helping students adapt to new technologies.

The decline in sentiment coincides with data from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), which noted falling math and reading scores in the U.S. and other developed nations.