On Education Miracles in General (and those in Mississippi in Particular)

• In Event: Analyzing Large Scale Data Systems: Methodology and Implications for Practice

Abstract

Spencer (2024) reported about “Mississippi’s education miracle.” Based on NAEP 4th grade literacy test scores, the state moved from a 49th place ranking in 2013 to the top 20 in 2023. Patrinos (2025) called the miracle a “model for global literacy reform.” The results do seem to be miraculous – at least if you say them fast. Such a dramatic turnaround clearly marks a sharp deviation from what we expect given the laws of nature/education generated by a century of empirical experience. If the turnaround is indeed legitimate, then the Literacy-Based Promotion Act, which started in 2013, should be implemented in other states immediately. Unfortunately, a closer look reveals that the Mississippi Miracle is yet another mirage.

Authors

• Daniel H. Robinson, University of Texas - Arlington

• Howard Wainer, Independent

• Irina Grabovsky, National Board of Medical Examiners