For years, San Francisco public schools have been locked in a bitter debate over the county’s math curriculum. A vocal group of parents has argued that the district’s decision to delay Algebra I classes through high school hampers children who are willing to take the math course in high school. However, some experts and district leaders have argued that pushing back on algebra can level the playing field for children who are struggling in math.
The debate encapsulates larger battles of merit and equity being fought in the district.
The dispute culminated in a lawsuit filed in March by a group of San Francisco parents. They called for officials to reintroduce Algebra I into middle schools and to stop forcing students to take the course again in the ninth grade if they’ve already passed it at a private school or other providers before entering the high school.
With the school board expected to provide an update on the matter in two weeks, here’s what you need to know about the controversy.
Why did the district push back algebra?
The move from Algebra I to high school follows the Common Core math sequence, which includes a separate eighth grade math course that includes some algebra. However, confining Algebra I to secondary school was intended to keep students together, rather than tracking them by ability through the ninth grade, in the hope that more students of all ages would be prepared for algebra and higher math courses.
What does the research say?
A Stanford University study found that eliminating Algebra I in middle school had little or no effect on improving pass rates, proficiency, or enrollment in advanced math classes.
What’s new about the lawsuit?
County officials filed their response to the lawsuit, denying all allegations and asking a judge to dismiss the case. A hearing is scheduled for June 3.
Are county officials rethinking how they teach math and when to offer Algebra I?
Yes. Superintendent Matt Wayne told The Chronicle in an exclusive interview that the district will be taking a close look at math instruction and course delivery in the coming months. A progress report to the board is expected on May 23rd.
“We’re going to share some thoughts on where we need to go in math,” he said. “We still have a lot to do in mathematics.”
Does that mean he wants to reintroduce Algebra I into middle schools?
Not necessarily. That means Wayne and the board will look into the matter. Wayne said this “important decision” requires extensive public input through community meetings and public debate. No changes will be made this fall, but could come into effect in fall 2024.
Could Algebra I be back in middle school in a little over a year?
Yes.
Why the possible change of heart?
Wayne conceded that delaying Algebra I didn’t actually translate into greater participation by colored students in advanced math courses or better overall results. The Stanford University study confirms this. There has also been little change in standardized math scores across the district, with overall achievement at around 46%, but significantly lower for disadvantaged students.
The district is conducting an audit of the math curriculum, placement guidelines, and course order to appeal to students who want to advance faster through math courses while meeting the needs of those who are struggling.
“I’ve heard and the evidence supports the fact that we don’t sponsor as many students as we want and can, and too many don’t meet standards,” Wayne said. “We still have a lot to do in this area.”
Back to the lawsuit, what exactly is it about?
Basically, the parents claimed it was unfair to delay Algebra I because it “can hinder children whose academic progress in math exceeds that of their peers, creates barriers that prevent students from excelling in math, and it for everyone.” makes it nearly impossible for students to access it.” High school calculus.”
They also allege that students who took Algebra I outside of the district were forced to take the course again, in violation of the state education law, which suggests that all students who took the course before high school graduate, have met the state’s Algebra I degree requirements.
Still, they said, the district required all students who took the pre-high school course to take a “math screening test” to prove their ability, which the lawsuit violates educational regulations. Most students failed, meaning they had to repeat Algebra I.
Has the district looked into this?
Yes. As the lawsuit progressed through the legal system, Wayne announced that the county would no longer offer or require the math verification test. Instead, students who took Algebra I in a private school or other program need only submit semester grades of C or better and a syllabus of the course taken to review content to be placed in ninth grade geometry.
What’s next?
In addition to the school board’s May 23 update and the court hearing in early June, Wayne said the district will continue to respond to the lawsuit and work with the families to seek mediation rather than a lengthy litigation.
Otherwise, there is still much work to be done in the coming months and years to improve math teaching and learning in San Francisco schools, he said.
“Hopefully,” Wayne added, “overall people are watching what we’re doing for math.”
Reach Jill Tucker: jtucker@sfchronicle.com
