Read my latest entry at Edutopia, my posit that math is a social justice issue:

Even though Americans generally believe that math is the most important subject in school, students tend to drop out at higher rates when introduced to harder math and sciences. It seems the desire is there, but the skill and understanding are not. While there are a plethora of reasons for students to drop out, math always seems to come up as one of those levers with my former students.

In recent times, Andrew Hacker, Grant Wiggins, and Nicholson Baker have come for algebra’s neck, stipulating that advanced algebra need not be required for students. The argument goes, “If the students weren’t required to take anything above algebra, they wouldn’t drop out as often.” I agree to the extent that I would love for all my students to make it through high school without too much hassle. We have to reorganize the idea of completion and college readiness to assure that all students have an equitable chance at college or a career of their choosing.

Read more at Edutopia and let me know what you think!