Math Pathways
1. BACKGROUND OF KANSAS MATH PATHWAYS
Traditional postsecondary mathematics, including requiring college algebra for most majors, and requiring traditional prerequisite remediation that does not count toward a baccalaureate degree, impose unnecessary obstacles to degree completion for Kansas students.
According to KBOR’s Developmental Education Data Report, too few students are completing a traditional prerequisite developmental course and a general education math course within a two-year period. Further, according to a 2015 Report published by the Mathematical Association of America, A Common Vision for Undergraduate Mathematical Sciences Programs in 2025, “mathematics courses are the most significant barrier to degree completion in both STEM and non-STEM fields.”
The Kansas Board of Regents seeks to implement proven practices that remove these obstacles and advance access, affordability, success, and completion (all components of the Board’s strategic plan, Building a Future), by working with the Charles A. Dana Center at the University of Texas at Austin on Mathematics Pathways.
Kansas is now one of the 22 states participating in the Launch Years Initiative, which supports the scaling of mathematics pathways from high school through postsecondary education and into the workplace, aligned to students’ goals and aspirations. The Dana Center provides resources and support and holds an annual convening at which participating states can share ideas, best practices, and experiences related to the initiative.
| Kansas Math Pathways Webinar - Sept. 15, 2023 | Recording | Q&A | KBOR Presentation USG Presentation |
2. KANSAS MATH PATHWAYS WORKING GROUPS
Math Pathways Task Force
- Rachel Bates - Cowley Community College
- Qiang Shi - Emporia State University
- Keith Dreiling - Fort Hays State University
- Ryan Ruda - Garden City Community College
- Whitney Turner - Johnson County Community College
- Gabe Kerr - Kansas State University
- Brian Koch - Manhattan Area Technical College
- Tim Flood - Pittsburg State University
- Kim Warren - University of Kansas
- Sarah Cook - Washburn University
- Elia Ortega - Wichita State University
- Jolene Goodheart-Peterson - KSDE
- Jennifer Hamlet - KSDE
- Mistie Knox - KBOR
- Rusty Monhollon - KBOR
- Karla Wiscombe - KBOR
- Sam Christy-Dangermond - KBOR
Systemwide Math Course Placement Measures Committee
- Kindra Wells - Emporia State University
- Keith Dreiling - Fort Hays State University
- Mat Johnson - University of Kansas
- Gabe Kerr - Kansas State University
- Tim Flood - Pittsburg State University
- Stephen Brady - Wichita State University
- Sarah Cook - Washburn University
- Marc Malone - Garden City Community College
- Bethany Chandler - Butler Community College
- Nicole Dick - Garden City Community College
- Marcelle Cooper - Johnson County Community College
- Willis Ryan - Coffeyville Community College
- Brian Koch - Manhattan Area Technical College
- Talelia Schroeder - WSU Tech
Math Pathways are a critical component in the new performance agreements.