Reply to Jeb Bush's org behind the new MSDE MS math minutes increase (which will likely cut MS electives)

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Reply to "Jeb Bush's org behind the new MSDE MS math minutes increase (which will likely cut MS electives)"

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I’ve taught math. Many curricula publish lessons designed for 50-60 minute class periods. An hour of math per day, five days per week isn’t out of line.

Many districts and independent schools have math periods this long, and it has nothing to do with Republican lobbyists. [/quote]

Other states/schools don't require gym every day in middle school, so they have room for electives even in a 6-period day.  But if MCPS goes to a 6-period middle school day to meet this mandate, it will be a huge blow to foreign language, music, art, and other electives.  I would not be surprised if some middle schools will no longer be able to offer foreign language in middle school anymore (or anything besides Spanish 1) if this goes through due to lack of demand... most kids are not going to want to spend their one free period on foreign language (except at IB middle schools where they will be forced to and then won't be able to do arts.)

I support the 60 minute minimum for elementary school.  But in middle school, the costs are just too high.  More math minutes for kids who are struggling, absolutely-- keep the 7 period day and give the kids who need it an extra period of additional math support.  But don't force every middle schooler to give up their schedule flexibility to insist they get more math, based on zero evidence that it is necessary or beneficial.  [/quote]

I agree that the additional instruction time, if any, should only be provided to support kids who are below grade level or who otherwise need extra help.  An additional 15 minutes of math instruction per day isn't going to benefit my 8th grader who is doing just fine in honors geometry. [/quote]

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