Middle school scores in the United States by subject indicate a mixed performance across various subjects. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), math and reading scores have shown modest improvements over the years, while science scores have remained relatively stable. However, there are significant disparities in performance based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.

In mathematics, middle school students have shown steady gains since the early 1990s, with the average score increasing from 260 in 1990 to 282 in 2019. Reading scores have also seen a gradual increase, rising from 260 in 1992 to 272 in 2019. Science scores, on the other hand, have remained relatively flat, with an average score of 261 in 1996 and 262 in 2019.

Despite these overall trends, there are notable gaps in performance among different demographic groups. For instance, Hispanic students tend to score lower than their white counterparts in all three subjects, with a significant gap in science. African American students also lag behind white students in all subjects, with the largest gap in reading. Socioeconomic status plays a critical role in these disparities, with students from low-income families performing significantly worse than their peers from higher-income families.

The reasons for these disparities are multifaceted. Educational resources, access to quality teachers, and parental involvement are all factors that contribute to the achievement gap. Additionally, cultural biases and stereotypes can influence students' self-perception and academic motivation. For example, the "math gap" is often attributed to the belief that certain racial or gender groups are inherently less capable in mathematics, which can lead to lower expectations and less support for these students.

Data from the NAEP and other educational assessments highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities. Strategies such as increasing access to rigorous coursework, providing additional support for struggling students, and promoting equity in educational resources can help bridge the achievement gap. Moreover, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment that values all students' contributions is crucial for improving overall academic performance.