New Toolkit Makes the Case that "Math Works" for High School Grads

NEWS RELEASE

CONTACT:
Sandy Boyd, Achieve, (202) 419-1542, sboyd@achieve.org

Kate Blosveren, Achieve, (202) 419-1551, kblosveren@achieve.org

WASHINGTON – November 10, 2008 – Achieve, an organization created by the nation's governors and business leaders committed to ensuring that all students graduate from high school prepared for college and careers, has launched a new resource to make the case that advanced mathematics coursework is central to student success and a strong U.S. economy. The research and materials provided in the Math Works toolkit support the ongoing policy shift in the states to include more rigorous mathematics standards for all high school graduates.

The Math Works toolkit features fact sheets focusing on frequently asked questions and a broader policy paper that synthesizes the current research on why math is so important to all students as well as U.S. competitiveness. PowerPoint presentations and resource information are also available as part of the toolkit.

"Across the country, skepticism remains about the need for all students to take advanced mathematics in high school," said Sandra Boyd, Vice President for Advocacy and Outreach at Achieve. "The Math Works toolkit makes the case that advanced mathematics is important for all students, no matter what their plans are after high school. Students who take advanced math have better access to college, are more likely to get a degree, earn higher salaries and are better prepared for the workplace."

The toolkit also contains Mathematics at Work Brochures, a series of brochures that provide concrete examples of how advanced math skills are used in leading industries nationwide, such as information technology, advanced manufacturing and healthcare. Importantly, all of the jobs highlighted in the brochures are accessible to high school graduates without a four-year college degree.

"The Mathematics at Work Brochures demonstrate how advanced math opens up job opportunities and is actually used in well paying and growing occupations," continued Boyd. "In 21st century workplaces, more is being demanded of graduates than ever before, and being able to show students, parents, educators and policymakers the practical application of math coursework is critical to ensuring that students understand how taking the right kinds of courses in high school prepares them for future success."

To access the Math Works toolkit, visit www.achieve.org/Math-Works. To learn more about Achieve, visit www.achieve.org.

Created by the nation's governors and business leaders, Achieve, is a bipartisan, non-profit organization that helps states raise academic standards, improve assessments and strengthen accountability to prepare all young people for postsecondary success. At the 2005 National Education Summit, Achieve launched the American Diploma Project (ADP) Network, a coalition that has grown to 34 states, educating nearly 85 percent of public school students in the United States. The ADP Network is committed to aligning high school expectations with the demands of college, career and life.