8th Grade Math
Middle school math performance is strongly correlated to high school graduation, college completion, and workforce performance.1
According to Strive Together, "Basic algebra has been referred to as the 'gatekeeper subject' because of its correlation to both college and career success. Taking algebra in middle school opens the gateway to completing advanced mathematics courses in high school which, in turn, is highly valued for admission to many four-year colleges and universities. Students who leave high school without adequate mathematics preparation and skills require post-secondary remediation coursework later on."2
Milwaukee Succeeds is new to the topic of 8th grade math. In the fall of 2016, Milwaukee Succeeds will begin organizing a community-wide strategy for improving 8th grade math proficiency. If you are interested in this topic, please contact our Goal 2 Manager.
1. Spielhagen, Frances. 2006. “Closing the Achievement Gap in Math: The Long-Term Effects of Eighth-Grade Algebra.” Journal of Advanced Academies, 18(1).
2. "Cradle to Career Student Roadmap to Success", Strive Together. http://www.strivetogether.org/vision-roadmap/roadmap#_edn9. September 18, 2016.