Bill Would Require 4 Years of Math for Students

Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Oklahoma high school students would be required to take four years of mathematics before graduating high school under a bill approved in the Oklahoma Senate.

The bill by Sen. James Halligan increases the requirement from three to four years of math. An amendment was added that would add a requirement for an additional year of government history and civics.

Halligan, the former president of Oklahoma State University, says students are graduating from high school unprepared for college or the work force because of a lack of math skills.

The bill drew heated debate from opponents who argued the increased math requirement would be an obstacle for students with no plans to attend college.

The measure passed 33-13 and now heads to the House.