During a meeting Thursday in Vancouver, the State Board of Education voted to raise the number of credits students would need to graduate from 19 to 24.

The 16-member board also voted to approve much-contested math standards. The Legislature decided that students beginning with the Class of 2013 would have to take three math credits to graduate, and the board decided that would mean three rigorous math classes, including algebra II, integrated III or an equivalent course.

The board’s aim isn’t simply to add credits, but to reshape high school education by drafting “career paths.” Teens would be encouraged to focus on one of three areas – arts, technical skills, or science and math – that best correlates with future ambitions.

Lorilyn Roller, one of two students on the board, said ambition is the problem at her school.

“I talked to some summer school students and showed them what we’re doing and the career pathways,” said Roller, a 17-year-old from Hazen High School in Renton. “They couldn’t picture using their diploma for something after school.”

The board agreed to delay imposing the increased number of credits – dubbed the CORE 24 – on school districts until the state Legislature sets aside money to pay for more teachers and classes. The goal is to fully implement the new standards by 2016.

In passing these resolutions, Washington more closely matches Oregon, which requires 24 credits for a high school diploma. Idaho requires 23.

Though the votes wrapped up in two hours, they weren’t without debate.

The career tracks emphasize elective classes, which worried board member Amy Bragdon. A veteran teacher, Bradgon said electives often amount to fluff classes in which students are teacher’s assistants. She asked the board to specify courses that were career-oriented.

Though some on the board liked the “spirit” of Bragdon’s idea, they voted against it.

“I really liked what Amy was saying, because, yeah, a lot of electives can be a joke,” Roller said, “but I don’t think every elective has to be career-oriented. I’m in orchestra, for example, but I don’t want to go into that as my career.”

When the voting was through, state schools chief Terry Bergeson gave an effusive, if cautionary speech.

After 14 years at the helm of the state’s education office, she said, she’s seen “how good we are at not putting our money where our mouth is.”

Bergeson continued: “This board is very passionate about not doing what the board has done in the past, which was putting a huge financial burden on the districts without going to the Legislature for support.”

She said she hopes the Legislature will come through with money.