DMPS Secondary Math Pathway

Middle school students will be enrolled in their grade-level math course with embedded extensions for students who demonstrate readiness for advanced work. This provides the opportunity for all students to develop deep conceptual understanding of mathematics to be able to accelerate their mathematical pacing in high school if they choose to do so.

Beginning in High School, there are various options. Depending on post-secondary plans, students may take different pathways, beginning after the completion of Geometry. Although only 3 years of math credits are required for graduation, for future success, 4 years of math courses are encouraged.

Entrance to a 4-year school immediately after high school without needing to pay for a remedial and non-credit bearing math course at the college level would generally require successful completion of Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 at a minimum (see pathway 1).

For students interested in pursuing a skilled trade immediately after high school, Exploration of Math in the Trades provides a chance to experience the type of math used in different trades such as electrical, plumbing, and construction. More specialized programming is available at our Central Campus location and would include a math specific course, Tech Math. These courses would likely not aide in admission to a 4-year college or university (see pathway 3).

For students who are interested in pursuing majors in the science, math, and engineering fields at a 4-year college or university, an option exists to take AP Calculus and earn college credit (see pathway 2).

Finally, there are two additional elective courses for students to consider, AP Statistics, and Exploring Justice Through Mathematics. These courses are currently under review for NCAA accreditation and may or may not count towards NCAA accreditation. Please check with your counselor if considering pursuing NCAA sanctioned activities in college.

Career and Technical Opportunities at Central Campus
Following the completion of Algebra 1, students have the opportunity to enroll in several career and technical education programs that heavily utilize mathematics including:

• Electricity
• Plumbing and Mechanical Systems
• Welding
• Carpentry
• Intro to Aviation (available to 9th graders concurrent with Algebra 1)
• Auto Tech
• Auto Collision
• Culinary Arts

Students who are enrolled in these Career and Technical education programs/ courses are automatically enrolled in College Technical Math through DMACC. College Level Tech Math 1 and 2 which may be taken in addition to, or in replacement of courses such as Geometry or Algebra II towards graduation credit.

For more information about specific programs, please check out https://centralcampus.dmschools.org/

Advanced Mathematics Pathways
The recommended mathematics course pathways provide appropriate pace, depth, and complexity for most students. For students with an identified outlying academic need in mathematics, additional course pathways, including opportunities for Calc BC and/or Linear Algebra and Differential Equations, may be appropriate. Students will be identified for math content acceleration through the Gifted and Talented Department. Initial and ongoing placement decisions are informed by assessment data, evidence of significant discrepancy from grade level peers, and performance in mathematics. Courses will be offered at Central Academy during high school. Academy mathematics courses are advanced and accelerated from the traditional courses taught at home high schools.

AMPS (Advanced Math Problem Solving) is an elective math course for students in at least Pre-Calculus with interest and ability in mathematics.

Specialized Course Offerings
Students with Individualized Education Plan (IEP) services in mathematics and English Learners will have access to specialized courses to meet their educational needs. A team of educators will work with the student and family to determine the best pathway to meet students’ needs and goals.