Our network  Calif. drops Algebra 1 requirement for 8th graders
| Education  Title (Max 100 Characters)  Calif. drops Algebra 1
requirement for 8th graders  SACRAMENTO, CA - The state Board of
Education decided California eighth-graders will no longer be
required to take Algebra 1.   Instead, California adopted what's
called Common Core curriculum, a policy most states have moved
to ... where students can still take Algebra 1 if their
districts can offer it or take courses with elements of Algebra.
They'll have opportunities for more advanced math in high
school.   "This doesn't do anything to limit the possibility,"
said Gerry Shelton, education consultant. "Students can take
Algebra in the 8th grade in the same way they've always been
able to but doesn't necessarily require them to."   Critics say
schools that are struggling will choose not to offer Algebra 1,
leaving poor, low-income students ill-prepared for college.
With Algebra 1 required, the percentage of African-American
students enrolled in the c