Research brief
From loss to recovery: Diverging paths and uneven gains across schools
February 2026
By: Emily Morton, Megan Kuhfeld, Ayesha K. Hashim, Scott J. Peters
Description
This research brief examines two components of school recovery post-COVID pandemic to better understand recovery patterns. These include initial declines in average achievement and post-pandemic gains in average achievement across schools. By understanding these different recovery patterns, the brief offers insights to policy makers and leaders where to invest for long-term improvement and targeting support where it is needed most.
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