Bill to Introduce Higher Level Math Courses To 8th Graders Introduced In Senate

A bill to mandate the inclusion of Algebra I or Mathematics I course offerings for all 8th-grade students was introduced in the Senate recently, with the first Committee hearing on the matter being scheduled to occur later this month.

According to bill SB 1410 authored by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa), the state Board of Education would require that grade 8 pupils be offered the opportunity to take an Algebra I or Mathematics I course that is aligned to the content standards adopted by the state board. The new requirement would be set into place by January 1, 2025. 

In addition to SB 1410, Senator Bogh also introduced two sisters bills. One, SB 1411, would facilitate the participation of higher education subject matter experts in K-12 curriculum development discussions and would ensure that K-12 education aligns seamlessly with college requirements, providing students with a clear and direct pathway to higher education and beyond. The other, SB 1412, would bring curriculum development conflict of interest regulations for grades 9 through 12 curriculum development into parity with the regulations that are imposed for grades K-8.

Bogh wrote all three bills to fortify math curriculum standards, bridge the gap between K-12 and higher education, and uphold the integrity of curriculum development processes. In particular, the bills would allow students better access to high-level mathematics courses, such as calculus, and assist them in pursuing a STEM/Mathematics-intensive major in college.

“Math is the gateway to innovative career paths and is fundamental for fostering a highly skilled and competitive workforce,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “When we shortchange our students by diluting math education, we compromise their futures and the future of our nation. It is our duty to uphold the highest educational standards and prepare our children for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.”

While the bills have had some traction so far, with SB 1411 and SB 1412 both passing committees early on, many educational experts have said that it is important to not go overboard and keep classes optional.

“A lot of students go into fields that don’t require much math,” said educational researcher Isabelle Dawson to the Globe on Monday. “The approach of the bill, giving the opportunity to take it, is great. You make more math classes mandatory, and overall grades tend to go down as many students just are not good at it. But, students who are thinking of going into engineering or something early on, they can take that advantage and improve the inflow of STEM students.”

“The bills also need to be more variable. A lot of students switch majors or change interests in high school and especially college. They need to make sure that K-12 education aligning to go into college takes into account multiple paths. But these are good first steps. More options for students early on is great, and better yet, more optional classes. Forcing students to do things make them hate that subject some times. This is a good compromise.”

SB 1410 is set to be heard in the Senate Education Committee on April 24th.