35 Teachers Are Sharing The "Basic" Things Students Apparently Cannot Do Themselves Anymore

"I teach 3K, these are 3 and 4-year-olds, and most of our kids cannot put on a jacket at all. They won't even try...they start throwing tantrums before even attempting, saying they can't do it, it's too hard, etc."

"I have been shocked by the number of second and third graders who can't tie their shoes. I also have fourth graders who can't write their first and last names. Granted, I spend most of my time with the kids who are failing more than one class, but it's really scary to think that a kid can get to fourth grade without anyone raising an alarm about their inability to write their full name."

"Was giving my class a timed multiplication assignment in which they had to multiply approximately 30 one digit multiplication problems, like the nines tables, within a certain amount of time. Was told by an administrator that I was wasting valuable school time because this was nothing more than 'factoids' they could get online."

Teachers across grade levels describe significant declines in student capabilities for basic tasks and skills. Young children struggle with simple self-care like putting on jackets, while older students cannot tie shoes, write their names, or read analog clocks. Academic concerns include inability to perform basic multiplication and reading comprehension. Teachers attribute some challenges to reduced practice and emphasis on digital tools over foundational skills. Administrative responses often prioritize parental satisfaction over academic accountability, with teachers facing pressure when enforcing standards or assigning appropriate consequences for academic dishonesty.

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