Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HSB219

Introduced
2/20/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to mathematics instruction, including by requiring school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to develop an advanced mathematics pathway that is designed to enable students to succeed in courses related to algebra in grade eight.

Impact

The bill requires automatic enrollment of students in the advanced mathematics pathway if they meet certain performance benchmarks, such as achieving grade-level proficiency on statewide assessments or demonstrating proficiency through local evaluations. Parents are granted the authority to opt their children out of this pathway if they prefer. This automatic placement intends to facilitate better access to advanced mathematics courses for students who show potential, potentially leading to higher overall performance in mathematics and readiness for higher-level math in high school.

Summary

House Study Bill 219 (HSB219) seeks to enhance mathematics instruction within Iowa's education system by mandating that school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools develop an advanced mathematics pathway. This pathway is specifically designed to prepare students for success in algebra-related courses by introducing a structured sequence of courses that typically cater to students in grades six through eight. The goal of the bill is to streamline student enrollment into advanced mathematics tracks based on specific performance indicators, ensuring that capable students receive the encouragement and resources they need to excel in mathematics.

Contention

A significant aspect of HSB219 is the emphasis on providing various instructional supports to assist students enrolled in the advanced mathematics pathway. These supports include high-dosage tutoring, additional instructional time, and small group instruction, all aimed at ensuring that students can thrive in this accelerated learning environment. Critics may raise concerns about the equitable distribution of resources required to implement these supports effectively, particularly in underfunded school districts. Consequently, while the bill promises to boost mathematics proficiency, it may also amplify existing disparities if not all schools can meet the mandated support structures.

Further_notes

Additionally, the legislation requires schools to report annually on their mathematics programs and student performance metrics, which could enhance transparency and accountability in mathematics education. However, the expectation on school districts to manage these new reporting requirements may place additional administrative burdens on educational institutions, prompting discussions about the necessity and practicality of such mandates.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HSB587

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying the social studies curriculum provided to students enrolled in grades one through twelve in school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools, and modifying the responsibilities of school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools related to requiring teachers and students to sing the national anthem.

IA HSB586

A bill for an act requiring school districts and charter schools to provide instruction related to character development to students enrolled in kindergarten through grade twelve.

IA HF2031

A bill for an act incorporating provisions related to pregnancy and fetal development into the human growth and development and health curriculum provided by school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to students enrolled in grades one through twelve.(See HF 2617.)

IA HF2617

A bill for an act incorporating provisions related to pregnancy and fetal development into the human growth and development and health curriculum provided by school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to students enrolled in grades seven through twelve.(Formerly HF 2031.)

IA SF2150

A bill for an act incorporating provisions related to pregnancy and fetal development into the human growth and development and health curriculum provided by school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to students enrolled in grades one through twelve.

IA SF159

A bill for an act relating to education, including modifying the responsibilities of the state board of education and school districts, prohibiting instruction related to gender identity or sexual orientation in school districts and charter schools in kindergarten through grade eight, modifying provisions associated with the human growth and development instruction and health screenings provided in school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools, and providing civil penalties.

IA HF513

A bill for an act relating to education, including requiring instruction related to persons with disabilities in school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, and charter schools in kindergarten through grade eight, modifying the responsibilities of the state board of education, and modifying provisions related to school district and accredited nonpublic school programs that are designed to eliminate harassment and bullying.

IA HF73

A bill for an act relating to firearm education in schools, including requiring the director of the department of education to develop and distribute age-appropriate model programs for firearm safety instruction and modifying provisions related to the required instruction in public schools and accredited nonpublic schools in grades six through twelve.

IA SF2223

A bill for an act relating to children and students, including by modifying provisions related to a parent's or guardian's rights to make decisions affecting the parent's or guardian's child, the educational program and human growth and development curriculum provided to students enrolled in school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools, student health screenings, school district library programs, special education, and other duties of school districts and the governing boards of charter schools and innovation zone schools.

IA HF327

A bill for an act relating to education, including modifying provisions related to comprehensive school improvement plans, teacher librarians and guidance counselors, required days or hours of instruction in elementary and secondary schools, agreements between school districts and community colleges to teach certain courses, required courses in school districts and accredited nonpublic schools, and shared operational functions, and authorizing school districts to offer sequential units in one classroom.(Formerly HSB 119.)

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AK SB197

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MS HB1626

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KY HB162

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CA AB2565

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ND SB2213

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IA HF784

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to mathematics instruction, practitioner preparation programs, and the duties of the director of the department of education, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 137.) Effective date: 06/02/2025, 07/01/2025.

IA SF450

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to mathematics instruction, practitioner preparation programs, and the duties of the director of the department of education, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 1092.)

NV SB149

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