Hampshire County board approves first reading of revised graduation requirements, including Algebra II requirement

The Hampshire County Board of Education on Jan. 5 approved the first reading of proposed revisions to Policy 2120, which would change high-school scheduling and graduation-credit requirements beginning with coming freshman cohorts.

Superintendent (S2) told the board the district seeks to move from a four-period semester (90-minute blocks) to an eight-period, yearlong schedule so students keep core classes through the full school year. "Some courses that need more time and lab work can still be doubled up," he said, adding that the move would keep instruction for tested subjects continuous rather than split across semesters.

The proposal would reduce required credits from 26 to 24 for the 2026–27 cohort while simultaneously requiring Algebra II for all students except in narrowly defined circumstances (for example, certain special-education placements or documented, demonstrated adjustments). "Require all students to take algebra 2 except in certain circumstances involving special education," the superintendent said.

Officials framed the change as a philosophical shift to emphasize real-world and transferable skills and to make graduates more "hireable" in regional labor markets. The superintendent said the district will rely on personalized educational plans (PEP plans) so counselors and teachers can tailor pathways for students aiming for college, trades or workforce credentials.

Board members questioned potential downsides, including impacts on seniors, course offerings and teacher planning time. The superintendent acknowledged trade-offs: reduced planning time for some teachers and the possibility that some lower-quality elective courses would be removed from the schedule to keep offerings strong. He said administration had checked with state officials to ensure the cohort-based change aligns with WV policy timing and that next-year seniors would not be retroactively required to meet the new cohort rules.

After extended discussion and requests that administration bring example schedules and course-mapping for future meetings, Board Member S5 moved to approve the first reading; S3 seconded and the motion passed on a voice vote. The board approved the first reading only; further readings and administrative details will follow before final adoption.

Votes at a glance: the board approved the first reading of Policy 2120 (motion by S5; second by S3; outcome: approved).