Math at Washington

To ensure that all students receive instruction in the foundational K-8 math standards, all students in Seattle Public Schools are be enrolled in the next math course in the sequence based on their previous year’s math course enrollment. Please note that skipping over a course or taking a course independently is not an approved acceleration progression in SPS middle schools. More information about math course sequence.

6th Grade Math Placement and HC Options

Washington Middle School offers three options for math placement in sixth grade during the 2026-27 school year. These options are designed to help students learn and grow at a pace that supports their academic needs.

All students will be placed in Sixth Grade Math unless they complete option 2 or 3, regardless of HC Designation.

Please note that HC students attending HC elementary schools (Cascadia, Decatur, Thurgood Marshall) will have the option of Math 7/8 OR Math 8.

Option 1: Sixth Grade Math

• Students enroll in standard sixth grade math and receive differentiation to meet their needs. 
• Progression:
  • Seventh grade: Math 7 or Compacted Math 7/8 (HC)
  • Eighth grade: Math 8 or Algebra (HC)

Option 2: Summer Math Program + Math 7/8 in 6th Grade

• Students complete the HC sponsored online summer course (May– Aug. 15, 2026).
• Progression:
  • Seventh grade: Algebra 
  • Eighth grade: Geometry 

Option 3: Direct Placement into Math 7/8

• Students who demonstrate mastery of sixth grade standards on the MAP assessment during fifth grade may enroll directly in Math 7/8 as sixth graders. Please note that the HC department will release applicable MAP RIT scores in spring 2026.
• Progression:
  • Seventh grade: Algebra
  • Eighth grade: Geometry

Families will receive more details in Spring 2026, and the Department of Highly Capable Services will work with schools to confirm placements. 

Questions

Email hicap@seattleschools.org