More Kids in Alabama Taking Math Classes

    Private researchers are reporting that more
kids than ever are taking algebra in eighth grade but not
necessarily learning more math.

    Enrollment in algebra classes doubled from 1990 to 2007. Nearly
a third of all U.S. eighth-graders were taking algebra last year,
30 percent were in Alabama.

    But a new study by the Brookings Institution says many kids
sitting in algebra class are unprepared. Eighth-grade math scores
have dropped for algebra students even as overall scores have
improved.

    The study is based on The National Assessment of Educational
Progress, often called the nation’s report card.