Parents are calling for more open communication with schools because some don't like how the system handles the high schools traditional and integrated math programs.

However, just because some are upset, does not mean the system does not work. Others are saying that integrated math is a necessity for the future.

Drew Privitt is in the integrated math program and his mom, Judi, loves it. She does recognize though, how some parents could be anxious about the program.

"The integrated program is not the way we learned math," Judi Privitt said. "I think for some parents that's the real concern when their child comes home and it looks very different than the way they learned math, they're concerned and they don't know how to help them."

For Drew Privitt the integrated program is working.

"If you learn the process, it's kind of like basically figuring any problem instead of just memorizing every single problem," Drew Privitt said.

According to findings from the National Math Advisory Council, conceptual learning and skill problems are equal and must be taught together.

Internationally, math taught in higher education is the integrated program.

"The US is the only country at the secondary level that divides the curriculum into Algebra, Geometry," said Robert Reys of the University of Missouri Math Department. "All the other countries in the world use integrated mathematics."

Judi Privitt is actually employed with the school district, working with teachers to determine the best way to teach students.

"When I walk into the dentists office, I certainly don want my dentist to practice dentistry he did 15 years ago because their not keeping up with what's going on around them," Judi Privitt said. "We expect the same with teachers. Teachers, by nature, are lifelong learners."

Within CPS, administrators say that math enrollment is up, despite concerns. More students are now taking upper level courses. Ultimately, it will depend on the student which type of math pathway they should take.

"The challenge with education is you've always going to have situations with individuals and there will be unique situations well have to deal with and our work is to try to deal with them with a humane way to support the student," Chip Sharp of CPS said.

Supporters of both the traditional and integrated programs agree that it comes down to proper placement which should be determined on a case by case basis.

CPS has never spelled out how they decide which path a student should take.

Administrators also said that there has never been an agenda with each program and there is no plan to phase out the traditional pathway. CPS hopes to improve communication with parents so students can be taught the way that is most conducive to their learning style.