Our middle school math program has been carefully designed with student success and equity as our paramount consideration. Our approach prioritizes mathematical readiness, deep conceptual understanding, and a thoughtful progression that ensures all students are truly prepared for the rigors of high school mathematics.
Our comprehensive math pathways are about maximizing student potential. We recognize that each student's mathematical journey is unique, which is why we have developed multiple routes that support different levels of mathematical aptitude:
For students with exceptional mathematical strengths, our Horizons program offers Math I as early as 6th grade.
For students who demonstrate strong foundational skills, rigorous and compacted honors courses in grade 6-8 provide accelerated learning.
Carefully structured progression allows multiple entry points into advanced mathematics. As a result, students can begin high school level advanced courses, beginning with Math I, as early as 6th grade in the Horizons program, and in 7th, 8th and 9th grade based on the readiness of the child which is determined by multiple data points. One placement test is insufficient to determine this readiness.
Our focus remains on building robust mathematical foundations that prepare students for long-term academic success.
Our middle school math team has meticulously crafted these pathways to challenge students appropriately while providing the support necessary to build confidence and competence. We are committed to meeting each student where they are and providing personalized paths to mathematical excellence.
Currently, there are 47 total 6th-grade students enrolled in Math 1 in the district.
-Will students be able to test into Math 7 Honors in 6th grade, or will all students be enrolled in Math 6 or Math 6 Honors in 6th grade unless they are part of the Horizons program?
Carefully structured progression allows multiple entry points into advanced mathematics. As a result, students can begin high school level advanced courses, beginning with Math I, as early as 6th grade in the Horizons program, and in 7th, 8th and 9th grade based on the readiness of the child which is determined by multiple data points. One placement test is insufficient to determine this readiness.
-When did CMS start offering Math 1 or Math 7 Honors for 6th graders outside of the Horizons program?
As part of our commitment to alignment, equity, and consistency, the district is focused on ensuring all students receive high-quality instruction that prepares them for success in their individual paths. Three schools during the 2024-25 school year offered Math I in the 6th grade, which includes Community House Middle, Northwest School of the Arts and Randolph. While a school (Community House) piloted a different approach of offering honors 7th math in the 6th grade, we are recommitting our existing district-wide practices at all schools to support our district Math 1 goal and to prioritize mathematical readiness, deep conceptual understanding, and a thoughtful progression that ensures all students are truly prepared for the rigors of high school mathematics.