Chapter 193-I: Math Learning Communities Program in Public Secondary Schools

The commissioner of education shall establish and encourage the implementation of a math program of studies to be known as math learning communities to meet the needs of any student who requires a better understanding of requisite math knowledge and skills to successfully transition from high school, to college, and career. Math learning communities shall be made available statewide to all public secondary schools and shall be administered through the community college system of New Hampshire in partnership with public secondary schools that offer the program. Students who continue to struggle with mastering mathematical concepts and/or fail to thrive in math courses taught using conventional methods, and who are not prepared to engage in the mathematical reasoning and application required for college, their careers, or for everyday challenges throughout their lives, shall have access to this program of study and shall be encouraged to participate.

I. The department shall encourage every public high school in the state to consider placement in the program's courses for students who may benefit from this program. The program of studies will consist of one or more high-school level courses that progress through the mastery of Algebra 2 concepts necessary for college admission and success. A student who has demonstrated mastery of Algebra 2 concepts shall be considered for dual-enrollment, college-level mathematics courses.

II. Math learning communities will include ongoing training and professional development for teachers in the program on learning strategies designed to engage and support students who have not retained mastery of prior mathematical learning and/or are reluctant mathematical learners. Opportunities for teachers in the program across the state to connect in a community of practice will also be offered.

The community college system of New Hampshire shall annually submit a report listing the New Hampshire high schools that are partners in the math learning communities program to the department of education, the house education committee, and the senate education committee no later than October 1. The submitted report shall contain, but not be limited to, the total number of students participating in the program's courses; the number of participants in training, professional development, and community of practice offerings; a summary of data-based student achievement and growth; and any other information as determined by the community college system of New Hampshire.