WMS Accelerated Math

Dear Families,
Over the course of the Spring and Summer, the Math Department will be considering which students demonstrate
readiness for the Accelerated Math program in Grades 7 & 8. Qualifying students will be invited to join the class. The
Accelerated Math class is designed to move at a faster pace, covering 1.5 - 2 years of curriculum in one school year. The
Grade 7 Accelerated curriculum includes the Massachusetts Frameworks for grade 7 as well as several Pre-Algebra
standards, and the Grade 8 Accelerated curriculum covers the Massachusetts Framework for grade 8 as well as all of the
Algebra I standards.

Readiness for the accelerated class is determined by looking at several criteria:
● Top Classroom Scores (including test and quiz scores, not including extra credit and retakes)
● Aptitude for Math (approach to problem-solving, ability to work independently, mastery of new material)
● Teacher Recommendation
● MCAS Data (Previous Years/Spring Released Data)
● IXL Snapshot (Diagnostic)

We try our best to put together a strong group of math students to participate in the accelerated math program each school
year. Our goal is to place students in the class in which they will thrive. Students who were in the Accelerated Grade 7
class may be moved into the regular 8th grade level class if we feel this will be a better fit, and students in the regular
grade 7 math class may be moved into the Accelerated Grade 8 Algebra class if we feel that they are capable. We hope to
place students in an environment that challenges them (but does not overwhelm them) and leads to a better appreciation of
Algebra and its applications to the real world.

Please note that qualification depends on more than report card grades. Classroom grades are only one piece of the puzzle.
Many students have successful years in regular middle school math and are still able to follow the high school pathway to
Advanced Placement math classes. It’s all about student readiness to tackle advanced math. We place students where they
will find both a challenge and a path to success.

We are looking forward to a great year in math and celebrating student growth at all levels. Thank you for your continued
support!

Sincerely,
Brian N. Curley