From: Nicci Nunes (inunes@muse.sfusd.edu)
Date: Wed Nov 29 2000 - 19:15:21 PST
Message-Id: <l03110700b64b76694ab8@[156.1.109.71]> Date: Wed, 29 Nov 2000 19:15:21 -0800 From: Nicci Nunes <inunes@muse.sfusd.edu> Subject: SFUSD Math Science Graduation Requirements
I am looking for outside support to lobby for higher math and science
requirements in the San Francisco school district. My school seems to be
the only one that is lobbying for at least 3 years of college prep science and
math. Read our statement below. Most other schools seem to be agreeing on
2 years of college prep science and 1 year of non-college prep science
(whatever that means). I would especially like it if Professors, University
Departments of Science, or people who have contacts with scientific
professional organizations might be willing to write statements lobbying the
group who is meeting to discuss this and the school board who will
eventually decide. This issue means a lot to me because I feel that it is
about equity and access. If you would be willing to write a statement,
please let me know and I will provide you with the email addresses of the
appropriate people. Please feel free to pass this email along to other
people who you think might be interested.
Thanks,
Nicci
To: Committee to study high school graduation requirements
From: Thurgood Marshall Academic High School, Department of Science
Re: Graduation Requirements Proposal
Date: November 28, 2000
Given that a student in high school may not have had the prior experience to
know whether or not they have talents or interests in math and science.
Given that being under-prepared is not the same thing as being unable.
Given that Latinos, African Americans, and females are underrepresented in
higher education and careers focused on math and science.
Given that math and science have a reputation throughout society for being
very difficult and challenging resulting in the fact that many students,
particularly students who are under-confident, will not take these classes.
Given that high school is the only place for many students who do not go on
in math or science to become scientifically literate and mathematically
skilled.
Given that math, science, and technology skills are becoming more and more
important in our society.
Given that every student deserves equal access to all classes and career paths.
Given that teaching the same material in a different way is not lowering
standards.
Given that there are science programs in SFUSD where the curriculum has been
adapted so that under-prepared students are learning chemistry and physics
in nontraditional ways and are being successful.
We believe that the SFUSD graduation requirements should be as follows.
· at least 3 years of college prep math.
· at least 3 years of college prep, lab-based science (biology, chemistry
and physics)
We also believe that professional development should be given potentially
through the NSF funded Urban Systemic Program to help teachers adapt their
teaching styles and curriculum to work for a more diverse group of students
or to create additional classes such as college prep, lab based conceptual
chemistry and conceptual physics classes.
**********************************************
Nicole Nunes, Ph.D.
Science Department Head
Thurgood Marshall Academic High School
45 Conkling St.
San Francisco, CA 94124
(415) 695-5612 x3100
inunes@sfusd.edu
**********************************************
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