School Board Member Urges Return of Advanced Math, Calls for Data-Driven Accountability

Nicholas Mistretta

At the June 17 Montgomery Township Board of Education meeting, board member Ting Wang emphasized the need for increased transparency and the use of systematic data in district decision-making. Wang called for a clearer picture of student performance and retention, particularly the transition from middle school to high school, and encouraged the district to prioritize evidence-based practices.

“The burden is not on those asking for data,” she said. “The burden is on making decisions without it. Effective boards make data primary.”

Wang laid out several key points, including the importance of ensuring test score validity, and called for responsible use of performance metrics. She also addressed concerns related to course offerings, stating that eliminating advanced coursework in the name of equity may limit student opportunity. “Removing learning opportunities is not how we close the achievement gap,” she said.

Wang concluded her remarks with a request for a clear plan moving forward—specifically, a commitment to public-facing data transparency, with summary findings and evaluations presented in ways families can understand. She called for a shift toward “a culture of continuous improvement grounded in evidence.”

Board member Joanna Filak also weighed in, stating, “We cannot ignore what the community members expect of us.”

Board President Patrick Todd noted that the issue in question had previously been put to a vote, and the motion to restore certain programming did not pass. Filak responded, saying she was seeking to better understand the administration’s position, expressing concern about the potential impact on students’ college readiness.

Todd responded “No student is being deprived of anything,” reiterating that students still have access to rigorous academic opportunities under the current curriculum structure.

Photo Credit: Nicholas Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomery.com