South San Francisco Unified School District (SSFUSD) is reorganizing its middle school math curriculum.
The changes are part of a new curriculum adoption process and are meant to promote long-term success in math by helping middle school students develop better skills and understanding of mathematical concepts.
"All students will have the option to take two math classes in seventh or eighth grade in preparation for the study of geometry in ninth grade," said SSFUSD Superintendent Dr. Shawnterra Moore. "We are not eliminating algebra or advanced seventh grade math from the middle school curriculum. Rather, we are recommending that students wait until eighth grade to enroll in an accelerated math class, instead of seventh grade as has been the custom."
Moore said the new recommendation is meant to help students develop a firm and comprehensive grasp of foundational math skills and a deep understanding of the concepts from Math 7 and 8 before moving on to algebra.
According to Keith Irish, SSFUSD assistant superintendent of educational services, middle school students at SSFUSD who enrolled in an accelerated math class over the last 10 years have experienced mixed results.
Irish said only 53% (314) of SSFUSD high school seniors who graduated in 2023 met minimum college eligibility requirements.
Of that number, only 85 (27%) had taken Advanced Math 7 in middle school, and only 61 (19%) had enrolled in calculus, an elective class that requires five years of high school level math.
Of the 85 students who had taken Advanced Math 7 over the last 10 years, 46% (39) went on to calculus in high school.
However, 54% (46) wound up taking calculus without the benefit of enrolling in more accelerated math classes.
“Because SSFUSD strives to provide educational equity, the district will continue to look at potential options in seventh grade math based on student need, interest, and eligibility," said Dr. Moore. "Meanwhile, students who successfully pass algebra by eighth grade have and will continue to be able to enroll in geometry as freshmen in high school.
She said there will continue to be opportunities in middle school to help mathematically inclined students reach calculus in high school.
“Every year, SSFUSD assesses the needs of our students, so that we can provide high quality instruction,” she said. “We will continue to listen to and work in collaboration with our staff and families to provide the best educational experience for all our students.”
For more information about SSFUSD's new middle school math options, visit: