A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

October 20, 1997

A Letter from the Secretary of Education

Many parents, students, and teachers now understand that mastering mathematics is a gateway to college. A recent analysis by the U.S. Department of Education indicates that high school students who take algebra, geometry, and other rigorous mathematics courses are more likely to go on to college. This is true regardless of their family income. In fact, the benefit of taking rigorous courses is greatest for students from low-income families.

The key to understanding mathematics is taking algebra or courses covering algebraic concepts by the end of the 8th grade. Achievement at that stage gives students an important advantage in taking rigorous high school mathematics and science courses. However, many 8th and 9th graders may already be behind in their course selection to get on the road to college. Some students do not have access to rigorous mathematics courses -- either because their school does not offer everyone a full selection of challenging courses, or because not all students are prepared for and encouraged to enroll. The results of the recent Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) confirm that many students enter high school without a solid grounding in mathematics, closing doors very early for further education and better careers.

Students, parents and educators should review this important report and understand the significance of a solid foundation in mathematics as a key to college and career success.

Yours sincerely,

Richard W. Riley

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