School officials seek to make a substantial change to the 6-12 mathematics curriculum in the Milton Public Schools. The goal is to instill a more academically rigorous program that will improve all students fundamental mastery of algebra and geometry and result in improved MCAS and SAT test scores.

The proposal was made at the 2/09 meeting of the School Committee by Michelle Kreuzer, Math Technology/Business Dept Head for grades 9-12 , Amy Gale, Curriculum Coordinator for grades 6-8, John Drottar, Principal of MHS, and James Jette, Principal of the Pierce Middle School. Alan Cron Assistant Principal of Milton High and Kenneth Aubert were also present.

The team seeks to improve the understanding and test scores by better integrating Algebra and Geometry beginning in the 6th grade and continuing through the high school years. Ms. Kreuzer pointed out that currently there is a “timing issue” regardign when information is presented an when students are tested. At present the teaching of Algebra and Geometry take place independently. Usually Algebra 1 occurs in the 9th grade and geometry in the 10th. The revised curriculum woudl expose students to higher concept math sooner and would integrate the two subjects so they are exposed to and learning about both areas of mathematics year to year. School Committee member Pavlicek pointed out that such an integratd approach is common in most of the world. The USA is somehting on “an anomaly” is separating these branches of mathematics.

Kreuzer noted that the cost year 1 to implement the change would be ~$40,000. The lion’s share of this expense is for textbooks for the Pierce Middle School and Milton High. Asked by Mr. Huban if there was “a risk” to the cost, Dr. Drottar said that the other content areas were in good shape and that the funds earmarked for curricular materials should not be adversely impacted.

Other business included but was not limited to:

a gaggle osf students appeared from across the high school grades and from a variety of sports and activities and each read a statement in turn to encourage the community to show their support for this Saturday’s Walk-a-thon in support of Milton High sports and clubs. Learn more here.