By AP
Nashville, TN – A national study is critical of Tennessee, saying its not adequately preparing high school graduates to succeed in higher education of the work force.
The report was by Expectations Gap...a 50 state review of high school graduation requirements.
Its research indicates every student should take a minimum of four years of grade level English and four years of rigorous mathmatics.
The math courses should include Algebra 1, Algebra 2, geometry and Data Analysis and Statistics. The English courses should include literature, writing, reasoning, logic and communication skills.
Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama all require students to take Algebra 1 and 2 and geometry but the states fail to require a fourth math course for graduation. Tennessee Department of Education spokeswoman Rachel Woods defended the department's requirements. When coupledf with the mandatory passing of gateway exams, she says the curtrent requirements ensure mastery of math, science and English for high school graduates.