Board renews five-year waiver allowing Algebra I credit in eighth grade

The Mobridge-Pollock School District 62-6 Board of Education voted to reauthorize an administrative waiver that allows qualified eighth graders to earn Algebra I credit under district-defined pathways.

Staff explained the waiver aligns with state guidance that no longer requires a single course end-of-course exam for credit; instead, multiple assessment pathways exist and principals and instructors can determine appropriate local measures. The waiver grants a five-year approval window; staff said reapplication will be required at the end of that period, which would extend the waiver through the 2030–31 school year if approved.

Board members amended the waiver language to make the course exam optional and allow local discretion where appropriate. The motion to approve the waiver as amended carried by voice vote.