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MSDE proposes broader high-school math program, delays full roll-out to 2028–29
Summary
Maryland officials outlined a proposal to modernize high-school math by creating multiple framework-aligned options (including data science and quantitative reasoning) and shifting some implementation timelines from 2027–28 to 2028–29 to give districts more flexibility.
Maryland State Department of Education staff on Thursday presented a proposed overhaul of the state’s secondary mathematics policy aimed at expanding rigorous options beyond the traditional calculus-vertical track and giving districts more time to implement the changes.
Lindsay Breffle, MSDE’s executive director of mathematics, introduced the proposal as a shift from “pathways” to “secondary math programs,” saying the change is intended to give students more coherent, meaningful courses aligned to college and career goals. Dr. Robert Richardson, coordinator of mathematics, told the committee the department plans to organize post–Integrated Algebra coursework around several themes — including data science, discrete mathematics and advanced quantitative reasoning — and to require framework-aligned courses rather than relying on course names alone.
"Students aren't choosing one of these themes," Richardson said, describing how course sequences can blend themes to meet students’ goals. MSDE staff said the new approach emphasizes clear course frameworks that define minimum mathematical expectations and student learning experiences.
The department also proposed operational rules: end the use of “placeholder” courses that repeat earlier material without extending learning; require that courses demonstrate a meaningful purpose tied to postsecondary goals; validate Maryland-developed frameworks through a standards and frameworks validation committee; and permit exceptional, well-justified local course designs if supported by a framework and approved by MSDE.
MSDE recommended shifting some timeline language in the policy so that the primary requirement — that approved, framework-aligned courses serve as the foundation of secondary mathematics programs — would be in place by the 2028–29 school year rather than by 2027–28. Officials said the extra year is intended to allow LEAs that need more planning time to prepare, while those already ready may proceed earlier.
Committee members pressed MSDE on implementation: how higher education and career-technical programs were consulted, the research base for 60 minutes of required math instruction in elementary and middle grades, and the potential impact on other content areas. Breffle said higher-education partners, including University System of Maryland representatives, have been active participants in the policy development and noted pilot and district-level examples showing improved outcomes where additional math minutes were already implemented.
MSDE committed to providing supporting research and to developing implementation guidance and district models — including master-schedule approaches — to help districts integrate the changes without unnecessarily reducing time for other subjects.
The committee treated the presentation as information and discussion only; MSDE said it will release these policy revisions for public comment and return to the board in August for action on adoption.
