The Wallingford Public Schools Instructional Committee convened on December 2, 2024, to discuss significant changes to the mathematics curriculum, specifically the introduction of a modified course titled "Advanced Algebra with Financial Applications." This modification is in response to a new state requirement mandating that all students graduate with a half credit in financial literacy.

Christy Madansi, who presented the course modification, explained that the existing course, previously known as Algebra 2 with Financial Applications, will now be open to both juniors and seniors, expanding access beyond the previous restriction to only juniors. The course will be classified as CCP 1 and will award half a credit towards the financial literacy requirement, effectively reducing the total math credit requirement from four to three and a half credits for students who take this course.

The decision to modify the course was supported by the math management team and the teachers at both Lyman Hall and Sheehan high schools. A crosswalk analysis indicated that 90% of the content aligns with the existing personal finance class that fulfills the financial literacy requirement.

Committee members raised questions regarding the course's alignment with SAT requirements, particularly whether the changes would impact students' preparedness for the exam. Madansi reassured the committee that the course content has been aligned with SAT standards, ensuring that essential algebra concepts are covered.

The meeting concluded without public comments, and the committee moved forward with the proposed changes, highlighting the importance of integrating financial literacy into the curriculum to better prepare students for future financial responsibilities.