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MIRS, May 8, 2008

Up to 28 percent of Macomb County students are flunking Algebra 1, according to a random survey conducted by the Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD). And from what the chair of the House Education Committee, Rep. Tim MELTON (D-Auburn Hills), is hearing from across the state, this may be a trend that could impact dropout rates.

"It should scare everyone," Melton said. "There is a serious crisis brewing."

Melton said if the numbers are not reversed, many students will "not be on a track to graduate now."

MISD is sharing its findings with lawmakers. Melton said he's called other ISDs and found similar Algebra flunking rates — between 20 to 30 percent.

And to make matters worse, the MISD reports after it intervened to improve the test scores, 10 percent of the students still failed the course, which is required for high school graduation.

Melton said some argue more time is needed to "vet" this problem. He is calling for action now because students will be making decisions about staying in school or dropping out if that cannot meet the state math standard.

The data could buttress the move by Rep. Joel Sheltrown (D-West Branch) to create a dual high school graduation track, which in effect would allow students to fulfill the Algebra 1 requirement through another course. A House subcommittee is working on this issue.

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