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Actually, most of these "inter-country" tests pick the "best and brightest" kids for each country to take part, so I suspect "parental involvement" isn't a factor. Thse are our "elite" students.

Actually, the TIMSS (trends in international math and science study) tests did test cross-section of students at all income levels and abilities. And they did do some tests on the 'best and brightest' as well, defined as those taking Calculus and Physics. Again, even in those tests, we came in last in math and next to last in physics. Or vice versa. I can't remember exactly...

"Actually, the TIMSS (trends in international math and science study) tests did test cross-section of students at all income levels and abilities. And they did do some tests on the 'best and brightest' as well, defined as those taking Calculus and Physics. Again, even in those tests, we came in last in math and next to last in physics. Or vice versa."

I wasn't aware of the TIMSS data. What I was referring to were the "Calculus, Physics (also Chemistry)" type tests. And the results for all of them gave a truly abysmal showing by the USA. The teaching "profession" has a great deal to answer for, but I doubt they'll ever be "brought on the carpet" to make that answer.