Being able to quantify the effects of the Pandemic on education has been quite difficult. This Mckinsey report in the US has been the first to analyse four different data sets which have also taken into account the views of parents. As expected the data shows a disparity in lost learning between predominantly white and predominantly black schools with all students remaining behind in maths and reading. The former are two months behind and the latter five months behind their historical levels. Additionally attendance is low, relatively, and mental health issues are high. Government funds are also proving slow to reach the intended students and their families. This situation is widening the gap between children of high income and low income families. Addressing these issues now will become fundamental to maintaining a reasonable level of academic performance through to University and beyond. The same issues exist all over the world and in most cases the situation is even more dire. Action is needed now.
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