Algebra 1 for eighth-graders

Category: Letters

Created on Thursday, 12 April 2012 00:15

Last Updated on Tuesday, 05 June 2012 12:39

Published Date

Written by Nancy Baron

I've been communicating with many concerned Crossett Brook and Harwood Middle School parents this past week regarding the proposed change to the eighth-grade curriculum, requiring all students to take Connected Math. Eighth-graders who are algebra-ready would have to take Algebra 1 as an online course in their own time.

Many of us believe that:

Top schools in Vermont, New England and the rest of the country offer algebra to algebra-ready students in the eighth grade. It keeps kids interested in math and eases the academic pathway to higher math (calculus) and science (AP physics) during high school.
Alternate pathways to higher math and science that result from eliminating algebra in the eighth grade are unreasonably complicated and cause an undue burden on students and their families.
Harwood should strive to be a competitive and recognized leader in the pursuit of advanced math in high school. Eliminating algebra during school hours for algebra-ready eighth-graders is counter to this goal and harmful to the aspirations of students.

We believe that there are several alternatives to the 24/7 online model that would satisfy not only the accelerated learners but all eighth-grade students. We are looking forward to discussing these alternatives with the administration at the eighth-grade math meeting at 6 p.m. on May 3 in the Harwood library.

If you have a child who you believe would be a candidate for taking algebra in the middle school, I urge you to attend the May 3 meeting and to voice your opinion at the next Harwood board meeting at 6 p.m. on April 18. As we've seen from history, once a middle school math program is eliminated from the curriculum, it's nearly impossible to bring back. You can learn more at www.Facebook.com/WinningwithAlgebra.

Nancy Baron

Warren