District’s middle school math program chosen as state model

Barbers Hill ISD’s advanced middle school mathematics program has been selected as a model for other Texas school districts, showcasing the district’s academic excellence and commitment to student success.

The Texas Education Agency announced the decision after convening a work group in October to review instructional models for accelerated math programs in grades 6-8. These models aim to comply with Senate Bill 2124, signed into law in 2023, which mandates advanced math instruction in middle schools to enable students to take Algebra I in eighth grade.

The TEA work group evaluated models from several high-performing districts and developed two proposals: one based on Allen ISD’s scope and sequence and another based on instructional practices from Barbers Hill ISD and Tomball ISD. At the State Board of Education meeting in November, Model 2, which incorporates Barbers Hill’s approach, was selected to move forward.

A Leader in Math Excellence

Barbers Hill ISD’s journey to becoming a state model began in 2016, when the district recalibrated its middle school advanced math program. A task force of administrators, teachers, and parents worked to accelerate the curriculum, setting a goal for students to complete Algebra I by eighth grade.

The results have been remarkable. During the 2022-2023 school year, 97% of Barbers Hill’s eighth-grade advanced math students met grade level on the Algebra I STAAR end-of-course exam, with 76% achieving mastery. The exam is typically administered to ninth-grade students.

“BHISD is an academic leader, and it is affirming to have TEA single us out with two other quality school districts because of our academic rigor,” said Dr. Greg Poole, superintendent of Barbers Hill ISD.

The district’s approach involves a strategic progression of math instruction. Sixth-grade advanced math students learn all sixth-grade Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills along with portions of seventh- and eighth-grade TEKS. By seventh grade, students complete the remaining seventh- and eighth-grade TEKS, enabling them to take Algebra I in eighth grade.

Statewide Impact

In September, Monica Martinez, managing director of TEA’s curriculum division, highlighted Barbers Hill ISD’s success in advancing middle school math education. “We found out who’s experiencing success and found out the way they structure their sixth and seventh grade,” Martinez said.

In addition to being recognized, math instructors from Barbers Hill have been invited to collaborate with those from Allen and Tomball ISDs to develop cohesive instructional materials that will guide other districts across Texas. The SBOE will hold a public hearing on the proposed model in January, followed by a formal public comment period in March, with potential adoption of the new curriculum in August.

A Commitment to Excellence

Barbers Hill’s selection as a state model reflects years of dedication to academic rigor. The district’s middle school campuses have demonstrated the effectiveness of their approach, ensuring students are well-prepared for high school and beyond.

As Texas works to improve math outcomes statewide, Barbers Hill ISD’s program serves as a shining example of what is possible through innovation and collaboration.