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Board approves new math pathways, adding mathematical modeling, data science and AP precalculus
Summary
The Superior School District approved four new high school courses designed to broaden math pathways and offer alternatives to a traditional algebra‑to‑calculus track; administration cited ACT alignment and workforce skills as reasons for the change.
The Superior School District’s committee approved four new Superior High School courses intended to expand math pathways and give students alternatives to the traditional algebra‑2‑to‑calculus sequence.
Assistant Principal Matt Emerson told the board the current pathway “is totally fine,” but cited two reasons for change: alignment to the ACT benchmark (taken in juniors) and the need to offer pathways for students who do not plan a four‑year college trajectory. “If we truly do want to provide a superior learning experience and empower every student for life, we need to be sure that we are providing all of the options for them that are going to make sure that they can be successful with any path they choose,” Emerson said.
High school math teacher Bridal Lawton described the new pathway design and the classroom emphasis for the Algebra 2 Mathematical Modeling course: “Students have meaningful pathways … not necessarily that traditional algebra 2 through calculus sequence, but getting them still to get the algebra 2 done, but in a little bit more, what's called mathematical modeling. So more problem solving, more hands on approach.” Teachers and instructional coaches laid out a plan to align course standards to ACT proficiency tables and Wisconsin state standards, to ensure essential standards are covered on every pathway.
The board approved these additions to the catalog for use in the December registration cycle. The four new 1‑credit courses are: Algebra 2 Mathematical Modeling; Mathematical Modeling (course requirement); Data Science; and AP Precalculus. Administration said the timeline is earlier than in past years so high school staffing and course registration can be set in December.
Board members asked about class‑size thresholds and staffing. Administrators said AP Calculus AB/BC will likely remain small but must be preserved for students pursuing college calculus; other courses such as Data Science may take time to grow. The district also plans to pair intervention supports alongside Algebra 1 for students who need additional help, and to work with counselors and families to place students in the pathway that aligns with their goals.
Why it matters
The curricular change shifts how the district prepares juniors for the ACT and aligns course options with both workforce demand (employers requesting more data science and quantitative reasoning skills) and multiple post‑high‑school pathways. The changes are scheduled to affect course catalogs and student scheduling beginning with the 2026 registration cycle.
Implementation notes
- Course descriptions will be published and counselors will guide students during December registration. - The district will monitor enrollment in the new courses and adjust staffing as needed. - A priority is to preserve AP Calculus for students pursuing college STEM pathways even if enrollments are small.
