New Math and Reform Math have many things in common. They seem to have been designed by smart, very cynical people who did not actually want children to advance in mathematics.

So lots of complexity was created. Lots of distractions were created. Lots of tiresome difficult algorithms were created. Teachers are not supposed to teach. Children are supposed to sit around a table in little groups and figure out mathematics for themselves. When they have questions, they should ask each other.

Strictly for hunger, as my father used to say. 

The basic goal always seems to be to wear the children out and make sure they don't go very far. Please, will the adults in the room stand up and demand the end of this thing?

If you have not seen M J McDermott's famous video, if you don't know (for example) that the standard way to multiply is NOT taught in many schools, then please look at this article. It will bring you up to speed quickly.

"Memo to all teachers (RE: math)"

http://www.examiner.com/article/memo-to-all-teachers-re-reading?cid...

 Please pass this on to every teacher you know.