New law clears up confusion over algebra standards
8th-grade Algebra I requirement removed from state’s Common Core
Published: October 22, 2012
CSBA welcomed Gov. Jerry Brown’s signature last month on a new law that provides an alternate curricular path for students who are not ready to take algebra in the eighth grade, and which represents a major step toward aligning state math standards with the Common Core State Standards.
Two years ago, the State Board of Education adopted the Common Core standards in English-language arts and math, but the panel—appointed by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger—also inserted dozens of California mathematics standards, including a requirement that most California students take Algebra I in eighth grade. Since it was adopted as state policy in 2008, that controversial requirement has directed many students into advanced courses before they were ready for the more demanding curriculum. Approximately two-thirds of California’s eighth-graders took Algebra I last year, but only half of those students scored proficient on the state test.
CSBA Senior Director for Policy and Programs Teri Burns called the new law a win-win for students and school districts.
“It is particularly helpful that the state align our state standards and the Common Core standards for all subjects,” Burns said. “It is important for students that California have a coherent and logical set of educational standards on which they will soon be measured.”
CSBA Legislative Advocate Erika Hoffman praised the bill in a letter urging the governor to sign the legislation.
“This bill will allow the SBE to address issues regarding the current eighth grade math standards and will ensure that we have one set of standards, including the components of Algebra. Currently, the two sets of standards are confusing for both teachers and parents and the increased costs for instructional materials will severely limit what districts will be able to purchase,” Hoffman wrote.
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