Automatic Enrollment in Advanced Math: Middle Grade Math Strategy Spotlight
Middle Grade Math Playbook: Strategy Spotlight
Overview
Middle grade math is a critical milestone on the path to lifelong success. Students who build strong math skills by eighth grade are more likely to access advanced coursework, pursue college and career opportunities and increase their lifetime earnings. Communities can change this trajectory through high-quality math instruction, expanded access to advanced coursework, well-trained teachers and coordinated support across schools, families and neighborhoods.
Completing Algebra I by eighth grade is a key predictor of college and career success, but for years, the systems meant to place students in advanced math courses were leaving Black, Latine and low-income students behind. In Texas, two Cradle to Career Network members, E3 Alliance in Central Texas and the Commit Partnership in Dallas County, used local data to make the case for change. Their research helped drive the passage of Senate Bill 2124 in 2023, which requires all Texas school districts to automatically enroll students scoring in the top 40% on fifth-grade math assessments into advanced coursework. Since then, the gap in Algebra I completion between high-performing Black and white students in Central Texas has narrowed by 91%. When communities use data to challenge who gets access to rigorous coursework, more students get the chance to show what they are capable of.
Playbook ChaptersMiddle Grade Math Playbook
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