An algebra war has broken out in the top levels of government that could cause shock waves in middle schools across the state.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Tuesday urged the California State Board of Education to require that all eighth-graders be tested in Algebra 1. If the board agrees during a meeting today, it would mark a huge shift for California middle schools.
In recent years, the state has moved more eighth-graders into algebra. About half now complete the tough subject.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell warned Tuesday that requiring algebra of all eighth-graders could have dire consequences, including federal penalties under the No Child Left Behind regulations, if done too quickly and without adequate resources.
The issue arose earlier this year when the U.S. Department of Education found California out of compliance in testing students. The department noted California's standards call for algebra in eighth grade, yet half of eighth-graders are tested at lower levels.
The federal government told California to either enforce the standard for all students by enrolling them in Algebra 1 within three years, or develop an alternate test with some – but not all – Algebra 1 concepts for students not completing the subject.
The state chose to develop the new test, O'Connell said, to promote both rigor and flexibility. Supporters of tough math standards object, calling the second exam "algebra lite."
Schwarzenegger agreed, saying in a letter to state board President Ted Mitchell that he didn't want "a two-track system: one for high achievers and one for those of whom we expect less."
Call The Bee's Deb Kollars, (916) 321-1090.
