InMaricopa
In two previous columns, we looked at how the teaching of math in the elementary grades has reduced the number of students taking advanced math classes and suggested solutions to increase the number of Americans successfully entering STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) careers. One way is requiring college faculty teaching math to future elementary math teachers to teach themselves in a real elementary classroom.
There is another simple solution. Offering an advanced math program (AMP) in third, fourth and fifth grades allows capable students to be challenged and leads to greater interest and the opportunity to take more AMP classes in middle and high school. It requires the hiring of a qualified teacher, or the training to quickly develop that qualified teacher, but produces students who successfully complete two years of calculus and obtain a STEM degree.