Idaho implemented a new math initiative in 2008, spending millions of dollars on improving math instruction to increase math scores of students across the state. However, recent test scores indicate that this new math initiative did not have any positive effect on the math scores of students, and instead the scores are stagnant or dropping.
Idaho’s students are struggling in math despite new math initiative.
Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra has announced that something must be done about the failure to improve math education. To get schools back on track, she is attempting to convince lawmakers to tie the math initiative to a proposal she made for rural school centers. She is also considering adding “math coaches” to districts which are struggling.
Idaho has invested millions in improving math instruction in schools since 2008, Idaho EdNews reports, but math scores haven’t improved – they’ve actually gone down. EdNews reporter Clark Corbin analyzed math scores, and found that they’ve been stagnant or dropping across the board.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Key takeaways
- Idaho has invested millions in a new math initiative since 2008, but math scores in the state have actually dropped since it was implemented.
- The math initiative invested in training teachers and online supplemental math programs, among other areas.
- To address concerns, Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra is working on a new proposal to tie the math initiative into rural schools and adding math coaches to help teachers improve math instruction.
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