Why does English proficiency continue to decline?

This example in declining proficiency is probably simple proofreading errors.

Generally, it is likely attributable to the fact that each generation is less bound by tradition that the generation preceding it. I am not as concerned about the form of my communication as my parents, my children are less concerned than I.

The rapid decline in the last few years has probably come at the hands (or thumbs) of the SMS revolution and the rapid increase of abbreviations and substitution in instant messaging.

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I would add the crushing power of the computer and telecommunications trades, which have managed to muddle Words' meanings. This loses the differences between Words like 'content' (adjective of mood) and 'contents' (noun: that which is contained). In the UK: 'mobile' phones are NOT mobile, but 'portable' but the advertisers called them 'mobile' so "we all" do. I don't!

Languages always change, but more recently we have seen an almost enforced reduction in quality.

I do not know how English is taught in the USA but a striking aspect of speech in the UK now is an utter inability to understand what simple Words really mean. Consequently, as well as content/ contents, mobile/ portable, and uninterest/ disinterest, we hear or read tautologies like 'meet [talk] with' and 'the reason is because'; or the pseudo-intellectual tripe beloved of business managers: 'identifying requirements going forward' and the like.

As for "like"... Teenage girls would be lost without a Word they clearly cannot understand!