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Parents urge review of on-level precalculus textbooks and grading at Reagan High School
Summary
Two parents raised detailed complaints during public comment that Reagan High School's on-level precalculus class uses an outdated textbook and grading practices that disadvantage students; they asked the board to review the curriculum and consider a grade multiplier.
Parents at the meeting described long-running concerns about precalculus instruction at Ronald Reagan High School, saying the course uses an obsolete textbook and grading practices that they said are inconsistent with district policy and statewide expectations.
A parent who identified herself during public comment said district curriculum staff had acknowledged the textbook is out of date and that teachers decline to use it. “When my student requested the pre-cal book available, it was denied three times,” the commenter said. She said the course is taught at a fast pace, assigns heavy notes and tests graded automatically, and provides little opportunity for extra credit or dropped low scores. She asked the board to review the course structure and consider assigning a grade multiplier similar to honors or AP classes.
Another speaker who identified as the parent of a Reagan senior said the class is “piecemealed” from many sources and lacks continuity and uniform grading practices, creating GPA implications for college-bound seniors. Both commenters said they had raised the issue with the district curriculum office since January but had not seen a near-term correction.
District staff committed to follow up. Executive staff told the board they would provide trustees with a written report on the course—covering the textbook selection, how the course is taught relative to the district curriculum, grading practices, and whether the course should receive a multiplier—so trustees can assess any next steps.
Why it matters: Parents said the classroom practice potentially affects GPA and college admissions for students in a gatekeeper year (senior year). Trustees asked the administration to report back with details so the board can decide whether to direct curriculum changes.
What’s next: Superintendent and curriculum staff will prepare a written response for trustees that summarizes textbook adoption, grading policy application at Reagan, and recommended actions.
