A surge in applicants with straight A's has been reported, alongside a decline in basic math and reading skills. This trend is linked to grade inflation in California. The number of 'straight A' applicants has increased, while proficiency in fundamental subjects has decreased.

Further details on this issue are available from Fox Business. The source provides more information on the decline of basic skills and the rise of high grades.

More information can be found through the Fox Business report, which explores the relationship between grade inflation and declining basic skills.