OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Washington’s top education official is reporting steady student progress as the school year gets underway.

State Superintendent Chris Reykdal’s press conference Wednesday, Sept. 9 came on the heels of new reports highlighting student achievement.

According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which tracks data in the U.S., math and reading skills have been on the decline for the past two decades.

But Superintendent Reykdal notes that over the past academic year, students in Washington have been testing at or above the national average. He also added that attendance rates and participation in dual credit programs like Advanced Placement and Running Start are on the rise.

In terms of finances, Reykdal implored the state Legislature to reconsider cuts made during the last budget cycle.

That includes the state’s Transition to Kindergarten program, as well as professional development opportunities for elementary math programs.

If greenlit by the state Legislature, Superintendent Reykdal hopes to phase those programs back in over the coming years.