MATH GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

House Bill 4318 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Gary Howell

Committee:  Workforce and Talent Development

Complete to 3-20-17

SUMMARY:

House Bill 4318 would amend the organization of the courses which may count toward the math graduation requirements under the Revised School Code (MCL 380.1278a). 

Currently, the four credits of mathematics must include at least one credit each in algebra, geometry, and algebra II (or an integrated sequence of this course content that consists of three credits), and a fourth credit, such as trigonometry, statistics, pre-calculus, calculus, applied math, accounting, business math, a retake of algebra II, or a course in financial literacy.

Under the bill, the overall four-credit math requirement would remain the same, with algebra and geometry continuing to constitute two of those four credits.  However, the third credit would be amended to read "either algebra II or statistics" (italicized words added in the bill), and statistics would be removed from the courses which may count as the fourth math credit. 

The following provisions exist in the current Code and remain unchanged by the bill: a student may fulfill the algebra II requirements by completing a MDE-approved formal career and technical education program or curriculum that has appropriately embedded mathematics content as described in the law.  In addition, a student can complete algebra II over a two-year period; and each student must take a math course during the final year of high school enrollment.

The bill would take effect 90 days after it is enacted.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would have no fiscal impact for the State or for school districts, public school academies (PSAs), or intermediate school districts (ISDs).

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   Jenny McInerney

                                                                                               Fiscal Analysts:   Bethany Wicksall

                                                                                                                           Samuel Christensen

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.