Nearly 600 Scientists, Mathematicians Rip California’s Math Curriculum Plans

Nearly 600 scientists and mathematicians have signed a letter conveying “deep concern” over California’s recent steps to reform its mathematics curriculum for K-12 students that are purportedly designed to close gaps in pupil achievement.

“We are deeply concerned about the unintended consequences of recent well-intentioned approaches to reform mathematics education, particularly the California Mathematics Framework,” the letter read. It criticized the “one size fits all” approach the framework takes to K-12 mathematics education, arguing that the reforms would make it more difficult for students to succeed in college STEM classes.

The California Department of Education’s...