Texas public schools drop Algebra ll as a grad. Requirement.. (Rankin: 2013, credit)

[DSL_PWR]

The continuing deliberate diminishment of the intellectual level of the content of schooling and education of America..

[crone]

I was recently informed by a friend that the average IQ in the USA is 89. Back when I was watching those kinds of things it was 105.

We're in deep trouble. That's what happens when we import cheap labor.

It's time somebody informed the Congress so we can send the children of the undocumented to Pre-K and college.

My daughter teaches algebra to 2 and 3 years olds. Their parents pay 20 grand a year for 4 hours of her time 2 days a week.

[EasilyAmused]

Yes, Algebra I is 8th grade even for average kids in the private system. I had to suffer through Algebra II, even waaay back in the late 80's. When I found out I didn't have to take math my Senior year, I did the happy dance. (Female version of course) for hours.

[HookTheBrotherUp]

Well, I will admit that I took Algebra II in high school, but I was too naïve back then to know it was not a requirement... my parents forgot to tell me that.

I hate that the school systems lower the bar just so they can proclaim all their students are passing. Passing what? It is the same kind of thinking that now gives every kid a championship trophy at the end of every league season, even if they suck and can't ever make a point, or beat another team. On the other hand, now past mid-career in the IT realm, I must admit, Algebra has not the slightest significance in what I do on a day to day basis. None.

[EasilyAmused]

Originally Posted by HookTheBrotherUp

I must admit, Algebra has not the slightest significance in what I do on a day to day basis. None.

Totally agree, but just like reading the never used again Shakespeare and Faulkner, it challenges you,and makes you grow some brain cells. Later in life those do make a difference.

[tstone]

Originally Posted by jfre81

Algebra II was not a requirement, per se, when I was in school. It was required for the "recommended" graduation plan that they said would get you into UT, A&M etc.

I took a different math class that covered more real-world math applications. Maybe that should be a requirement.

Math of Money? That's how it was when I was in school, in the semi-highly ranked FBISD. It doesn't sound like much has changed. I also think the MoM should be a requirement, as even the average STEM college graduate hasn't a clue how compounded interest works.

I'm a STEM guy with that type of degree and job and even I agree not everyone needs Algebra II.

Algebra 2 Concepts

To be honest, a few of those I use @ work are completely automated, and the last time I actively used Trig was with a Boy scout sight method to measure Xmas lights along the top of my house that had angled peaks. It was only for my amusement because it worked, only had to make 1 trip to the store.

Otherwise, even on this board people talk about the shortage in the skilled trades. I am presuming the districts are focusing on prep for that?? Not everyone is a math guy. If they were, it would dilute the 'prestige'. For example, a STEM degree would be worth as much as a gender studies degree.

[Schumacher713]

Probably going to replace it with creationism. Texas board of education is ran by crazy idiots.

[fnh]

Originally Posted by Schumacher713

Probably going to replace it with creationism. Texas board of education is ran by crazy idiots.

Not just the Board of Education.

All four Republican candidates for Lt. Gov.: Teach creationism in public schools - SciGuy

[War Beagle]

Originally Posted by Oildog

If I understand, they have removed 'advanced' math now as well as gym and some arts/music. So what are the classes they are required to take???

Advanced diversity studies.

[MEC004]

Just because it is removed does not mean school districts will remove it as well.

Keep that in mind when deciding what school district you want to reside in.