Math Pathways, Placement & Family FAQs
Explore MVLA's math course sequences, learn how 9th‑grade placement works, and find answers to common questions about acceleration, college eligibility, and supports.
MVLA Math Pathway Flow Chart
MVLA Math Pathway Flow Chart![]()
MVLA Math FAQ
MVLA Math FAQ![]()
What Math Courses Does MVLA Offer?
Our high schools offer a range of math courses designed to meet the needs of all students and to prepare them for college, career, and beyond. Courses include:
- Algebra 1
- Geometry and Geometry Enriched
- Algebra 2 and Algebra 2/Trigonometry
- Math Analysis and Precalculus Honors
- Applications of Advanced Mathematics
- Statistics and AP Statistics
- AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC
Which Math Courses Do Ninth Graders Take in MVLA?
Most ninth graders will enroll in one of the following:
- Algebra 1 (with additional support if needed)
- Geometry or Geometry Enriched
- Algebra 2 or Algebra 2/Trigonometry
MVLA does not offer Pre-Algebra. Instead, students are supported through interventions and resources to succeed in Algebra 1 and beyond.
No matter your starting point, if you work hard and meet course expectations, you will have opportunities to accelerate and reach advanced courses before graduation. Your ninth-grade math teacher and your school counselor will help you build a plan if you want to move more quickly through the sequence.
How Are Expectations in High School Different Than in Middle School?
In high school, your grades directly affect graduation and college eligibility:
- You must pass Algebra 1 and Geometry to graduate from MVLA.
- To be eligible for UC/CSU admission, you must pass Algebra 2 (with a C or better).
- You must have passed Geomtery between the grades of 7 - 12.
- Many four-year colleges expect you to take four years of math, often including Precalculus, Statistics, or Calculus.
Failing a required math class means you must repeat it before moving on.
How Will My 9th Grade Math Placement Be Determined?
Placement is based on:
- Your middle school math course and performance
- Teacher recommendations
- Discussions with your family and counselor
Typical progression:
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Rising 9th graders choose their classes based on the recommended sequence of the courses listed below.
8th Grade 9th Grade
Math 8 CC8/8.0 → → → → → → → Algebra I
Algebra CC8/Math 8.1 → → → → → → → Geometry/Geometry H
Algebra Advanced 8 → → → → → → → Geometry/Geometry H
Geometry CC8/Math 8.2 → → → → → → → Algebra II/Algebra II H
Geometry Honors CC8 → → → → → → → Algebra II/Algebra II H
Algebra II/Algebra II H → → → → → → → Trig Math Ana/Trig Math Ana H
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What if I Change My Mind About My Math Course Request?
You will complete course requests in the spring of 8th grade. In May, you’ll verify your choices during the course confirmation process.
If you want to change, that’s the time to reconsider. Once the school year starts, it can be difficult to switch courses, as it often requires reshuffling your entire schedule.
What Happens if a Student “Over-Reaches”?
If a student chooses a more advanced course and struggles, schedule changes can be challenging and may require dropping an elective. It’s always better to make careful choices during spring registration rather than adjusting after school begins.
Are MVLA Math Courses Aligned to Common Core?
Yes. All math courses are aligned with the California Common Core State Standards, which emphasize problem solving, reasoning, and deep understanding. Our curriculum builds progressively from Algebra through Calculus to prepare students for college-level work.
Can I Take a High School Math Course in the Summer to Accelerate?
Summer courses can be risky. They move quickly and sometimes don’t cover all the standards. We encourage families to discuss this option carefully with a counselor before enrolling.
If you choose summer advancement, you must notify your high school in advance and get approval. Otherwise, you may not be placed in your desired class in the fall.
Can I Self-Study and Skip a Class?
Colleges like UC and CSU expect completion of specific courses (e.g., Geometry, Algebra 2). Skipping a class without credit can cause problems for college eligibility in addition to skill-building for math success. We do not approve skipping math courses.
If I Start in Algebra 1 in 9th Grade, Can I Still Reach Advanced Math and Science?
Yes. Many students start in Algebra 1 and still take Precalculus, AP Statistics, or AP Calculus before graduation.
A typical pathway looks like:
- 9th grade: Algebra 1
- 10th grade: Geometry or Geometry Enriched
- 11th grade: Algebra 2 or Algebra 2/Trig
- 12th grade: Trig/Math Analysis or Honors (with options to continue into AP Statistics or Calculus if desired)
The most important factor is consistent effort and progress in whichever class you begin.
MVLA Math Pathways & Additional Information
MVLA Math Pathways & Additional Information ![]()
Math Placement Policy
Math Placement Policy![]()
Math Placement Policy
California Mathematics Placement Act (2015)
The Act is intended to ensure a fair, objective, and transparent mathematics placement protocol that limits the use of subjective criteria in placement decisions. Our Board of Trustees affirms that such a protocol helps students and families make informed decisions that result in an appropriate 9th‑grade mathematics placement.
1) How placement decisions are made
- Course request verified by parent/guardian during course confirmation
- Guidance from counselors & staff via info sessions, online, and printed materials
2) Measures used for 9th‑grade placement
- District‑approved diagnostic assessments
- Standardized assessment scores from grades 7–8 (when available)
- 8th‑grade course performance (including grades)
3) Students receiving special education services
Final course placement is determined by the IEP team.
4) First‑month placement review
Within the first month of school, staff review 9th‑grade math enrollment using 8th‑grade coursework and final grades, diagnostic results, and standardized test scores. If a student previously earned passing scores and demonstrated proficiency, staff will consult with the student, parent/guardian, and current teacher to discuss advancing the student to the next course in the sequence.
Parent/Guardian & Pupil Recourse
- Request a meeting with school staff to review the measures used for placement.
- Request placement contrary to the professional recommendation of site staff (as part of the course selection process and/or with additional documentation).
Public Reporting
Each year, staff report aggregate mathematics placement data to the Board (per Ed Code §51224.7), demonstrating that all students are appropriately and fairly placed.
MVLA 9th-Grade Enrollment Data
