Eighth-grade Algebra 1 is a critical milestone in a child’s education, offering access to advanced math courses and better future opportunities, including higher college graduation rates and earnings. However, a significant gap exists, with fewer Black, Hispanic, and low-income students passing Algebra 1 compared to their white peers. In 2021, only 13% of Black students passed Algebra 1 in eighth grade, compared to 25% of white students. Research from RAND highlights challenges in poorer middle schools, where many lack Algebra offerings, teachers have less training and math expertise, and classroom time is spent less effectively than in wealthier schools, hindering the success of advanced students.
