8/19/2009

Senate OKs Change To Math Requirement

Michigan high school students would no longer be required to take Algebra II as part of the state's toughened math standards for high school graduation under a bill unanimously passed Wednesday by the Senate.

Instead, a student could fulfill the requirement by taking a career and technical education course if it had math components. Such programs include those for electronics, machining, construction, welding, engineering or renewable energy.

There has been increasing concern that the state's new math requirements could boost dropouts as some students struggle with the Algebra II curriculum.

The House Education Committee is scheduled to take up similar legislation later in the day.