A Slice with 'Dice
ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice shares personal reflections, lessons learned, and insights from the ever-evolving world of education in Arkansas and beyond.
A Slice with 'Dice
STEM Starts Here: The Importance of Middle School Math Acceleration
Why are some middle schoolers racing ahead in math while others never get the chance to start the race? ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the importance of expanding access to accelerated math courses in middle school and the consequences of unequal opportunity. Drawing on new research and current legislation, this episode examines how geography, economic segregation, and parental education levels all shape which students get to take Algebra I and Geometry early—and why that early access matters for long-term academic success. With a spotlight on Arkansas’ Senate Bill 604, Alderdice highlights how policy changes can help ensure all students, regardless of background, have the chance to rise to the challenge.
For additional thoughts from Director Alderdice, visit coreyalderdice.com.
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Learn more about ASMSA at asmsa.org/thrive.