San Diego's Math Problem: Time to Face the Numbers

The Issue

San Diego Unified School District has a math problem that's getting worse. A recent UCSD report revealed that 1 in 12 admitted students needed remedial math courses in 2025, a significant increase from 2020. The report suggests that high school grades might be inflated, especially after the pandemic and the end of standardized tests.

The Numbers

• Only 45% of students meet state math standards.
• The district boasts a 90% graduation rate, but are students truly ready for college?

The Problem Starts Early

The issue isn't just in high school or college—it begins in elementary school. The district needs to change its approach.

Solutions

1. Be Honest About the Data

   • Celebrate success, but also admit where the district is falling short.
   • Share specific plans for improvement and hold the district accountable.

2. Ensure Consistent Grading

   • Standards-based grading was approved in 2021 but is not uniformly applied.
   • Either drop the policy or ensure all teachers use it correctly.

3. Support Students Before They Fail

   • Focus on students with Ds and Fs, but also pay attention to students with Cs.
   • Provide support before they fall further behind.

4. Use the Right Curriculum

   • Introduce a new math curriculum for grades K-5.
   • Extend this to grades 6-12 to ensure consistency and better learning outcomes.

The Call to Action

The UCSD report is a wake-up call. The district must act now to improve math education. It's time to face the numbers and make a change.