Many of Washington’s students do not receive the basic math and science foundation they will need to be successful in a complex and competitive world. The cracks begin to show as our high school students’ test scores fall behind those of their peers from other nations. And soon after graduating from high school, nearly half of students entering college must take remedial math.

 

Studies show that students in remediation classes are less likely to continue to pursue a degree or finish a technical or trade program.

 

Skilled teachers, professional development and quality curricula are key.

To help our students develop the skills they will need, we must have more skilled math and science teachers. In 2007, the State Legislature provided approximately $50 million for professional development for teachers in math and science. Those teachers need more training and a limited number of high-quality curricula from which to choose. Math and science courses should align with what is required by colleges, technical programs and employers. Finally, incentives are needed to get more math and science majors to consider teaching as a viable and exciting career.

Key next steps:

• Increase high school graduation requirements to include four years of math, including Algebra II, at minimum.
• Approve a limited number of state math curricula with incentives for their use, and provide professional development for teachers.
• Make the Washington Math Placement Test available to all 11th grade students as a tool for assessing progress and informing course-taking decisions.
• Incorporate inquiry-based science curriculum and provide core instructional materials and professional development for teachers and school leaders.
• Improve teacher credentialing in math and science, and reduce out-of-field placements.