Expand access and reduce disparities by auto-enrolling highest-performing math students into advanced math pathways

Getting into an advanced math pathway in Texas has historically been inconsistent. A student may need a referral from a teacher, a counselor, parent or guardian.  Someone may need to advocate on their behalf.

The data is clear. Even our best performing Black, Hispanic, and 5th graders from low-income households are under-placed in advanced math pathways.

The 8th-grade equity disparity across Texas is wide: fewer than half as many students from low-income households are enrolled in Algebra I by the end of 8th grade, compared to their non-low-income peers (18% versus 40%).

Amidst concerns about the state’s change in high school math graduation requirements in 2013, E3 Alliance began researching and convening key influencers to strengthen math pathways in Central Texas.

With the support of the Greater Texas Foundation and the contributions of our Pathways of Promise Steering Committee, we found our proof point: an opt-out policy for advanced math enrollment in middle school.

Several Central Texas school districts tested this policy with great success. The Commit Partnership in Dallas later tested with its district partners, showing similar results. We knew the Texas Legislature could quickly scale this policy change across the state, aiding tens of thousands of students.

Statewide Impacts via Senate Bill 2124

We turned to Senator Brandon Creighton and Representative Donna Howard, who sponsored the bills, and InvestEd, who helped advocate with us. Texas Senate Bill 2124 (SB 2124) passed unanimously during the 88th legislative session. This bipartisan bill gives more equitable access to advanced math courses for high-performing students by implementing a statewide opt-out process.

Now, students who demonstrate proficiency (the top 40% of students) are automatically enrolled in advanced math pathways, positively impacting Black and Hispanic students previously affected by the old policy. This new policy ensures strong math pathways for all students.

SB 2124 goes into effect in the 2024-25 school year. This will help lead them to 8th-grade Algebra I and four years of math in high school, increasing postsecondary success rates for far more students.