SF Schools Bring Back Algebra After 12 Years

San Francisco public schools will once again offer eighth-grade algebra as a standard course, marking a significant shift 12 years after its removal. The San Francisco Board of Education narrowly approved the reinstatement with a 4-3 vote on Tuesday. This action overturns a previous initiative that had eliminated algebra from nearly all middle schools, intending to provide disadvantaged and minority students more time for foundational math concepts.

A 2023 Stanford study revealed that this policy change did not achieve its equity goals and led to a 15 percent decline in AP math course participation, particularly affecting AP Calculus. Furthermore, racial equity gaps in math classes remained statistically unchanged for Black students, with only a marginal increase for Hispanic students in advanced math courses.

Parents and researchers had long criticized the policy for potentially hindering students' college applications and academic progression, especially for those aspiring to STEM fields. The recent decision reflects a shift in political winds, with newly elected board members and Mayor Daniel Lurie supporting the return of algebra. District Superintendent Maria Su is tasked with developing a plan to integrate algebra as an elective in 19 schools.

Two schools will pilot an accelerated program, combining Math 6, 7, 8, and Algebra I over three years. Early results from a district experiment suggest this accelerated approach can yield dramatic gains in math scores for participating students.