Holliston high school to change schedule; math department proposes flip to let students reach AP calculus earlier

Holliston High School administrators updated the school committee on May 1 about a planned transition to a yearlong schedule for 2026''27 and described how departments are reworking course sequences so students can still access advanced coursework.

The administration asked departments to form representatives and working groups to examine at least 25 items affected by the change, including midterms, grade weighting, course sequencing and how AP classes fit with AP exam timing.

For math, school leaders proposed flipping the current order of Geometry and Algebra II so that students on accelerated tracks can continue to AP Calculus without having to double up classes. Under the plan described to the committee, the algebra-to-algebra-2 pathway would allow students who take Algebra I earlier (for example in eighth grade) to progress to Algebra II in ninth grade, then to an integrated or accelerated tenth-grade offering and then to AP-level work in eleventh grade if desired. The administration said the flip would not change curriculum content but would alter sequencing to preserve access to AP Calculus and AP Statistics.

Administrators emphasized the change is meant to maintain equitable access. They told the committee they will form departmental committees this spring and bring specific recommendations back to the school committee for approval before implementation in the 2026''27 school year.

Ending: The district will ask staff volunteers to join scheduling and curriculum working groups, present recommendations for committee approval and work to minimize disruptions to current students' progress toward graduation and AP opportunities.