LANSING – State Representative Jeff Mayes (D-Bay City) yesterday voted in favor of a plan that will broaden the math requirements for Michigan high school students, paving the way for them to better prepare for good-paying jobs in the global economy.
"We need flexibility in our curriculum that will enable all our kids to prepare for the jobs of the 21st century," Mayes said. "We must insist on high standards that challenge our students, while creating pathways that allow every student the chance to succeed. This plan will move us away from the one-size fits-all curriculum that is shortchanging our students, and toward a common-sense set of requirements that will give our kids the quality education they need."
The plan, which now goes to the Senate, preserves Michigan's rigorous graduation standards while enabling students to acquire the tailored skills they need to obtain good-paying jobs in growing fields.
Under the plan, only Michigan's high school math requirements will change; all other current graduation requirements will remain the same. Students will still be required to successfully complete four credits in mathematics, including at least one math course during their final year of high school. These credits must include at least:
- One credit in Algebra I;
- One credit in geometry earned in a traditional geometry course or an approved career and technical course, and;
- One credit earned in a financial literacy course, an Algebra II course or an approved career and technical course.
"We have a moral imperative to prepare our kids for their career goals with the highest quality education possible," Mayes said. "We cannot allow Michigan students to fall behind as they compete for good-paying jobs. Potential employers and businesses looking to set up shop in Michigan are looking for a top-notch workforce, and this plan will ensure that all of our kids receive the best education we can give them."