Third Math Credit Required for Class of 2013...Probably

The State Board of Education approved an amended option for a third math credit late Thursday afternoon. The critical section of the directive was, “ We direct staff to draft rule language for our review at the March SBE meeting that requires all students to complete a third credit of math in an Algebra II course aligns to the new math standards and that meets the content standards to be approved by SBE. This course requirement can be completed through an approved course of student that is comparable in course content but allows the student to earn more than one credit to complete. This will be in effect for the Class of 2013.” Speaking in favor of the 2013 date was Steve DelPorto, Jack Schuster, Warren Smith, Terry Bergerson, Linda Lamb and Sylvia Fox.

At the March, 2008 SBE meeting, draft language will be voted on regarding the content of what the third year of math requirement should be and what year it would be implemented. The final rules will be adopted in May, 2008.

Edie Harding, Executive Director of the SBE, complemented AWSP High School Director Bob McMullen for the principals input on the issue. Ms. Harding also colplimented the AWSP Board members, component board members, the AWSP Legislative Committee and the AWSP staff survey for their thoughtful and prompt responses to the issue of 2012 vs. 2013 for implementation of the third credit of math as a graduation requirement. Nearly 75% of the 47 respondents wanted to keep the requirement in place for 2013.