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SB197

SB 197: New Rules for Math Class in Alaska

Last scannedSep 21, 2026, 12:32 AM

In one sentence

This law sets new rules requiring at least 60 minutes of daily math instruction, early testing, and extra help plans for students from kindergarten through eighth grade to prepare them for Algebra I.

What it does

  • Requires schools to provide at least 60 minutes of daily or 300 weekly minutes of mathematics instruction in grades K-8.
  • Mandates that districts test all students within the first 30 days of school using a state-approved standards-based assessment.
  • Creates a plan for extra help, called intervention, for any student who scores below proficient on these tests.
  • Requires schools to offer an advanced math track in grades six through eight so students can take Algebra I before ninth grade.
  • Directs the Department of Education and Early Development to list approved teaching materials and assessments for districts.

Who it affects

  • Students from kindergarten through eighth grade
  • School districts in Alaska
  • Math teachers and school administrators

Limits and unknowns

  • The bill does not state the exact date when these new rules must start.
  • The text provided ends before fully describing all details of the advanced mathematics class sequence for grades six through eight.
  • The law requires districts to use approved materials but does not list specific book titles or software names.

Plain language

Terms to know

Intervention instruction
Extra math help given to students who need it, which happens outside their regular class time.
Standards-based assessment
A test that checks if a student has learned the specific skills required by state rules for their grade level.
Mathematics improvement plan
A written document created with parents and teachers to outline how a student will get extra help in math.

Official record

Sources

Validated
Official bill pageIntroduced textCurrent bill text

Official summary

MATHEMATICS INSTRUCTION An Act relating to mathematics education; relating to the duties of the Department of Education and Early Development; and relating to the duties of school districts.

Official activity

Bill history

  1. (S) PRIME SPONSOR CHANGED - MYERS REPLACED HUGHES1559
  2. (S) REFERRED TO EDUCATION1355
  3. (S) EDC, FIN1355
  4. (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS1355