Finds that, although students are being expected to meet higher academic standards as defined by the essential academic learning requirements, there is still a gap between what is required for high school graduation and the knowledge and skills students need to be successful in college or work. This gap is particularly noticeable in mathematics. To make progress in assuring that a high school diploma reflects adequate preparation for the intellectual demands of adult life, the legislature intends to phase in a more rigorous mathematics requirement for high school graduation.

Provides that, beginning with the class of students entering ninth grade in the 2008-09 school year, minimum high school graduation requirements shall include the equivalent of three credits of mathematics, including at least algebra I and geometry or their equivalents. Beginning with the class of students entering ninth grade in the 2012-13 school year, minimum high school graduation requirements shall include the equivalent of four credits of mathematics, including at least algebra II and geometry or their equivalents plus a higher-level mathematics course designed to prepare students for postsecondary studies so they can avoid remedial college mathematics.