Doing the Math in Seattle: One Size Fits All

June 18, 2007

This fall, Seattle's elementary school kids will all be doing the same mathematics at the same time. For that to happen, teachers will have to follow new guidelines on the order and presentation of mathematics.

The city's school board is putting all students on the same mathematics page to boost district test scores as well as to streamline and standardize math curricula. Still, it's a compromise approach to instruction, which will make use of "Everyday Math" books — these concentrate on algorithms and diverse methods of problem solving — combined with "Singapore Math" books — these stress repetition and problem solving.

Only districts that can demonstrate progress by other methods will be allowed to deviate from the guidelines.

Sharon Rodgers, president of the Seattle Council PTSA, told the Seattle Post-Intelligencer that "the kids have waited long enough for some kind of consistency in math." On the other hand, M.J. McDermott, a parent, asked for a delay until next year, when the state of Washington revises its mathematics standards. Otherwise, "we will be right back here in a couple of years, looking to find a new solution," she said. "It will be money wasted."

Source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer, May 30, 2007