The state's ongoing drama over eighth-grade algebra escalated Tuesday as state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell issued a $3.1 billion ultimatum to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
At a news conference, O'Connell announced it would cost that much for schools to be able to teach Algebra 1 to all eighth-graders starting in three years. He called on Schwarzenegger – who pushed for the eighth-grade algebra requirement last month against O'Connell's wishes – to come up with the money.
The $3.1 billion represents the overall cost of a new "Algebra 1 Success Initiative," which O'Connell released Tuesday. It calls for reduced class sizes, more instructional time, summer programs, teacher training and many other efforts.
The state is in a fiscal crisis and budget stalemate. When asked where the cash would come from, O'Connell shrugged, saying the algebra mandate was something "the governor foisted upon us."
Schwarzenegger did not respond to the specific call for $3.1 billion. Instead, he issued a statement saying he looked forward to "working with the education community" to determine the best path toward the new algebra goal.
O'Connell's move Tuesday followed an unexpected decision July 9 by the state Board of Education requiring all eighth-graders to be tested in Algebra 1 within three years. Schwarzenegger urged the decision. O'Connell warned it would lead to high failure rates for students.
At the time, Schwarzenegger pledged he would provide the resources to get the massive job done. Secretary of Education David Long estimated it would cost "billions."
Currently, Algebra 1 is required for high school graduation in California. State standards call for it to be taught in eighth grade; about half of all eighth-graders reach that threshold.
O'Connell said it would take a massive effort to succeed with all at that age. Included in his plan: $1.5 billion to increase instructional time and $1.17 billion to reduce class sizes in pre-algebra and Algebra 1 in the middle grades.
Sacramento County Superintendent Dave Gordon noted that many districts are already earnestly working toward the new goal. He said he wished O'Connell and Schwarzenegger would reach out to each other and work jointly to chart the best algebra course.
"It's too important not to come together," Gordon said. "This could be a monumental accomplishment to our state."
Call The Bee's Deb Kollars, (916) 321-1090.
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