For the last 15 years, the State Board of Education has expected eighth grade students to pass Algebra before entering high school.
But, come 2015, all eighth grade students will be able to choose an alternate course that includes some algebra.
The State Board of Education unanimously passed the Common Core Curriculum last month.
"I think most math teachers believe that the adoption of common core is one of the most exciting movements to happen in math education for many years," said Kathy Hill, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools.
Hill said the new program will feature fewer topics than Algebra One.
"Common Core has paired down the number of standards so we're teaching less content areas, but more in depth," Hill said.
The program has already been established in 45 states. It gives students an opportunity to take Algebra One when they're ready.
But, under current legislation, students must pass Algebra to graduate high school.
"Many youngsters were put into eighth grade Algebra that really couldn't handle it," said Bill Honig with the State Board of Education. "They didn't do well and it turned out they were in worse shape by doing that than if they had taken a regular course."
"I'm sure that there are a lot of parents out there who really want their kids to be in Algebra, that's going to be possible. It's just not going to be the recommended way," Hill said.
New state standardized tests will focus on the Common Core Curriculum.
