Bill > HB237

This bill aims to improve mathematics education by ensuring students in kindergarten through eighth grade receive at least 60 daily minutes or 300 weekly minutes of math instruction, with parents regularly updated on progress, and by promoting evidence-based teaching methods, effective instructional materials, and intervention programs for students struggling in math. The Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) will provide districts with lists of approved, standards-aligned instructional materials and assessments to monitor student progress, including screening and diagnostic tools. DEED will also create a credential for teachers demonstrating competency in evidence-based math instruction for grades K-8. School districts must use the provided assessments, establish professional development programs for teachers focusing on evidence-based practices and data-driven instruction, and adopt approved instructional materials. For students scoring below proficient, districts must implement a math improvement plan with intervention instruction, developed in cooperation with teachers, principals, and parents, and provide monthly progress updates. Furthermore, districts will establish advanced math tracks for grades 6-12, automatically enrolling students who score proficient on assessments into these advanced classes, though parents can opt out. Students not automatically enrolled can request placement, with denials subject to appeal. Districts must also provide academic support for students in advanced math classes and inform students and parents about these advanced pathways and their benefits for college and career readiness. "District" refers to a school district, and "mathematical proficiency" is defined as a combination of practical problem-solving skills, computational ability, conceptual understanding, and viewing math as worthwhile, all appropriate to a student's grade level.

Education

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB237