This study analyzes PISA 2018 data to assess academic outcomes for 15-year-old U.S. students in reading, math, and science, focusing on variables like gender, ethnicity, home language, and parental education. Results highlight parental socioeconomic factors as key to academic disparities. Contrary to prior research, school location had minimal impact. Gender, language, and ethnicity were significant; girls excelled in reading, boys in math and science, while Spanish-speaking and Black students underperformed. The study advocates for targeted resources in disadvantaged areas and broad settings that include parental engagement and language support to promote equal academic opportunities.