As we look to the future at Camden Education Fund, we know that we first have to understand where we are and where we’ve been.

Toward this goal, we are sharing a report titled: Can Camden Students Continue the Comeback?’ This short data brief is an overview of recent education trends in Camden that includes both the progress made in Camden from 2015 – 2019, as well as the learning loss and recovery that occurred between 2020 and 2023 as a result of the pandemic. It also shares survey data that shows what families believe are some of the biggest challenges for Camden students.

The report shows that despite the setbacks of recent years, Camden city and its schools are still rising. We invite you to read the full report by clicking on the links below.

1. Camden students fell behind during the pandemic, but data shows they are catching up at a pace similar to the state average in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math.
2. Data shows Camden students have made learning gains over time. Current test scores not only show that students are rebounding but are still outperforming where they were a decade ago. 
3. Citywide enrollment has remained constant, but enrollment shifts between school types helped drive learning gains before the pandemic and is now helping with recovery. 
4. Families believe teacher shortages, student social emotional well- being, and academic quality are the top challenges facing Camden schools.

Our hope is that by understanding where we are, we can come together around common goals. We must create solutions with a focus on accelerating learning for our students by making them feel academically supported, comfortable, and safe in their environments, and in school buildings that provide conditions where they can thrive.

Specifically, we think there are a few core things Camden leaders can come together on. They include:

• Invest in Academic Support Strategies that Research Shows are Working
• Provide More Programming and Supports to Students Outside of Schools and Classrooms
• Create a Supportive and Attractive Environment for Educators
• Continue Investment in Healthy and Updated Buildings that Meet Community Needs