Letter: Schools must rethink higher math requirements

Published 1:30 am Thursday, August 18, 2016

I recently ordered a book. The title is “The Math Myth — and Other STEM Delusions.” Andrew Hacker is the author. He has impeccable credentials, and has written more than 10 books. He was also a math teacher. The book is clear, concise and short — about 200 pages, and very readable. I wish to share this book with every high school student, college student, concerned parent and curriculum director in this country — starting with the Everett School District.

Hacker makes a very strong case for revising math requirements. He questions the need for requiring algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus of every student. He has the facts and figures to prove that these requirements have been a factor in the drastic drop in the number of high school and college students receiving diplomas. He stresses the importance of a very firm foundation in arithmetic for everyone. Higher math is seldom, if ever, used by most graduates.

The only person I have shared this book with is Pam Thomas. She agreed with Mr. Hacker’s thesis completely. Thomas was an exemplary, innovative, dedicated teacher in the Everett School District for 30 years. As a former teacher myself, (but not math) I heartily recommend this book.

Edith Bennett

Everett