Portland Public Schools is experimenting with a new approach to middle school math, aiming to diversify who takes high school-level algebra in eighth grade while ensuring students are well-prepared. This experiment, led by veteran teacher Ernest Yago at Faubion PK-8 School, offers a math and science-focused elective to seventh graders alongside their regular math class. The goal is to better equip students for eighth grade algebra by reinforcing foundational concepts with hands-on, project-based learning. While it’s still too early to measure the success of this approach, the district hopes it will create a more diverse group of students who are ready for the challenge of high school math. Yago acknowledges that some students may need more preparation before tackling algebra, especially given gaps in learning due to the pandemic.
