Math

There are several reasons students should study math. First of all, math is useful in everyday life. For instance, all students will need to use math in order to do practical activities such as balancing a checkbook, calculating a tip, choosing a cell-phone plan, using a recipe, playing pool, or even building a deck. Secondly, math is important for students so that they can make informed decisions regarding financial decisions within their life. Lastly, research has proven that the higher the level of math that students study the better they are qualified for better paying jobs in the future. Regardless, in response to state graduation Essential Skills standards, ALL students must complete three years of math in high school that equal Algebra 1 or higher. In addition, students must meet the minimum standards on the Oregon Statewide Assessment System (OSAS). Therefore, a variety of math courses are available for students at McMinnville High School. It is recommended that all students plan a math sequence that will meet their present needs and future goals (keeping in mind the Essential Skills requirements and the four-year university minimum requirement of successfully completing at Algebra 2 with a “C” or higher.) Students are originally placed at the math level that is determined by students’ courses completed and grades earned in middle school. Students must successfully meet the requirements of their current level before they are recommended for the next level.

Essential Skills Assessment

State graduation requirements state that students must demonstrate proficiency in identified essential skills to receive the Standard, Honors, Basic, or Modified diploma. Students must meet the minimum standards on the OSAS Assessment. Therefore, it is important that students focus on their work.

In order to provide additional support, incoming 9th graders that are below the state standard will be assigned to “Algebra 1 Every Day” in which they will have an ‘Algebra 1 Instruction’ class and an ‘Algebra 1 Study Skills’ class.