School Board adopts comprehensive middle and high school math curriculum upgrades

The South Carolina SDPC Board of Trustees convened virtually on March 6, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the district's mathematics curriculum, aiming to enhance educational outcomes for students across grades 6 to 12. A key decision made during the meeting was the adoption of new math textbooks and resources that align with the 2024 math standards, ensuring consistency and rigor in instruction.

For middle school students, the board approved the use of Envision Math by Savas Learning Company, which received positive feedback from teachers for its structured lesson plans, STEM projects, and integrated AI lesson planner. This resource is designed to cater to various learning levels and includes features such as embedded Desmos activities and translation options, making it accessible for diverse learners.

In a notable shift, geometry will now be the entry-level course for students on an honors pathway, replacing Algebra 1. The board selected the Envision Geometry textbook, which teachers praised for its alignment with educational standards and its effectiveness in preparing students for assessments. This change is expected to streamline the transition for students moving from middle school to high school math courses.

High school math resources were also a focal point of the meeting. The board endorsed the South Carolina College and Career Ready Mathematics Standards Algebra textbook by BW Walsh for Algebra 1, emphasizing its comprehensive support for diverse learners and its alignment with state standards. For Algebra 1 honors, the Envision Math Algebra 1 textbook was chosen for its enrichment opportunities and rigorous problem-solving tasks.

The board also discussed new courses, including Applications and Modeling, which aims to prepare students for workforce readiness through problem-based learning. Additionally, the curriculum will now include Discrete Mathematics and a revamped approach to statistics through Statistical Modeling, integrating real-world applications and technology tools.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhancing collaborative learning through station activities in Algebra 2, further promoting engagement among students. The board's decisions reflect a strategic effort to modernize the math curriculum, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future academic and career challenges. As these changes are implemented, the district anticipates improved student performance and readiness for post-secondary opportunities.