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ALBANY, GA. -- The National Center for Education Statistics has released a new report card for education in the state of Georgia.

The study reveals the percentage of fourth and eighth graders who are scoring at or above proficiency levels in reading and math.

It shows fourth and eighth grade students in Georgia both come in below the national average when it comes to math skills.

Fourth grade reading levels are on par with national standards, but Georgia eighth graders are still falling behind.

Albany residents say they hope this trend changes.

“I don't think we have as good of schools as we used to have and I think that needs to improve if possible,” said Albany resident Henry Butts.

The information is based on scores from the National Assessment of Educational Progress.