Dismal math scores on the latest national standardized tests have prompted several state legislatures to propose updated teacher training requirements and better numeracy instruction.
Sixty-seven bills related to math in public schools have been introduced so far this year, according to a review of state legislatures. Most are pending, and several, if signed into law, would take effect before the next academic year.
The list includes a proposed ban on calculators in grades K-8, a virtual reality math instruction pilot program in Rhode Island, stricter certification requirements for future math teachers in Florida and Oklahoma, and regular numeracy screenings and interventions for younger students across several states, aimed at helping students reach proficiency levels before high school….