The Texas Tribune Education Chairmen Join Algebra II Fray at SBOE (Blog Stage Seven)

In an article titled “Education  Chairmen Join Algebra II Fray at SBOE” written by Morgan Smith talks about how they are lowering the standards in Texas education and making algebra 2 part of the honors program. Therefore, it will no longer be required amongst every student who chooses to follow the regular academic plan. This discussion began when two top lawmakers unexpectedly urged the State Board of Education to hold off on legislative intent because it includes new high school graduation requirements that the Legislature passed in May. Basically, the new law gives high school students an opportunity to choose your own math classes and to choose which academic path you wish to achieve. It gives high school students a better feel of what college is like because they now have the chance to choose which direction they want to go in. It may seem like a good idea but honestly I like our education system as it is right now. The fact that various classes are required in order for you to graduate is better because you learn a little bit of everything throughout high school. If you make students choose what they are interested in, in high school how will they know that they truly know if that’s what they want to do for the rest of their lives?

However, ”the 15-member board may decide this week that students in all endorsements must take algebra II  — a requirement the Legislature expressly dropped from existing law.” Business groups and educate advocates are convincing the board to require algebra 2 because they are worried about how this will affect their future. As a former high school student I highly agree with these business groups. I’m an average student and algebra 2 was not that hard. For the record, it was definitely one of the harder math courses but that’s what school is. You work hard and do the best you can so that way when you reach college, you’ll be prepared. Students need to be challenged, especially in this time period. This generation of high students are getting dumber. They need to be challenged not only in math but in other classes too. Because we are the future, I know how cliché that sounds but it’s true. Towards the end of the article, Smith talks about how educators and industry leaders are heading towards the decision of keeping algebra 2 required, which is good. Our education system compared to other states is not that high or difficult. If they decide to take away a major requirement, then Texas will look like we’re just handing out diplomas.