You might be surprised at statistics released recently regarding the mathematical aptitude of the nation’s math teachers.  Boston University reports that nearly 75 percent of all teachers administered state licensing exams back in March failed the algebra, calculus and trigonometry sections.

Academic leaders stated that the high failure rate indicates that too many teachers lack the necessary mathematical background.  They partially blame teachers who failed in the math testing for the lack of student achievement on the subject.

The greatest concern was with elementary teachers, since they are considered as providing the foundation of math instruction for students.  If students don’t master the basics while in elementary school, it is believed that they certainly would not be able to tackle more complicated math later on in their academic lives.

How did Aurora teachers fare?  If you base that on public school test scores, half of Aurora schools show lower-than-average ratings, some of which are very low.  On the other hand, many of the others scored very high.

Although, specific city statistics from the state licensing exams was not mentioned, it does appear that some of the city’s teachers need further education on the subject.  In those cases, measures need to be taken to ensure that they are adequately equipped to teach the students in Aurora’s schools.  For the other higher achieving schools, we here at Roost salute your hard work.

If you want ratings regarding a specific school, go to greatschools.net to see how students in your school scored.

Based on national education reports, the U.S. has a shortage of math teachers.  It is believed that 100,000 math and science teachers will need to be hired in the next decade.  If these are correct numbers, then math needs to be emphasized in the education of our teachers now more than ever.