Algebra: Do Most Kids Really Need It?

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — As high school freshman across the Tampa Bay area dive into their final quarter of the academic year, many are likely sweating their impending need to take – and pass – an algebra end-of-course exam.

The state of Florida requires high school students pass the EOC to earn their diplomas. The test also accounts for 30 percent of their final course grade in most years. Students who fail to pass the exam may find themselves having to retake it or take the alternative Postsecondary Education Readiness Test, or PERT for short, to successfully complete high school.

Andrew Hacker, a political science professor at Queens College, is taking that requirement to task. Addressing school districts across the country and their demands that kids pass advanced math to get out of high school, Hacker contends courses like algebra and geometry are just not necessary for all students.

“At the very time we should be honing and sharpening quantitative reasoning skills we punch students into algebra, geometry and calculus,” Hacker explained to The New York Times. “The Math People take over and ignore much simpler needs. Arithmetic is super essential.”

Hacker goes into his objections in depth in his new book “The Math Myth: And Other STEM Delusions.” Hacker has been quoted in many media outlets as citing advanced math requirements for high dropout rates. He also points out that many students discover they don't need algebra and other advanced math courses for their eventual careers, making the requirement an unnecessary burden on students.

To check out Florida high school graduation requirements, visit the Florida Department of Education online.

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