I live in NY, which is now a common core state. My son, a rising senior, is both dyslexic and dyscalculic. CC math simply didn't work for him so after geometry, I allowed him to take accounting as his third required math. He took Earth Science in 8th grade and did honors bio and chem, with not great grades, in HS. Last year, he began regular physics but I pulled him out after his tutor told me that his dyscalculia would be too much to overcome.
He is not taking math as a senior but will be taking AP Envi Sci and AP US Government. He is a stage crew kid and is interested in theater tech and production, along with psychology (did AP and got an A for the year, with a 3 on the test). His overall GPA is 3.3, due to poor grades in math, and he has a 27 ACT composite (19 in math; he is getting specific tutoring and will re-take in September and he does get extra time).
Almost all schools (including SUNY Purchase, which he is interested in) seem to want this ridiculous math class and many want physics. As an aside, both my husband and I managed to become attorneys without taking algebra 2/trig, physics or chemistry in HS. I really don't understand why there is a one size fits all mentality that completely disregards the fact that individual children have different strengths and weaknesses. As a disclaimer, my second son is a math whiz who went all the way through AP Calc BC so I do see value in math for those who enjoy it. I just don't understand why talent in math seems to be the end all and be all for determining whether or not someone is suited for college.
My son has taken mechanical drawing/drafting, 3-D printing and radio broadcasting, all of which I think are more suited for his intended major than trig or physics. He is also working on his Eagle Scout badge.
Bottom line - will not taking Algebra 2/trig and/or physics damage his chances of getting into a theater tech program?
Thanks for any input and if anyone here has a child in similar straits, please know that I empathize.
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