If I understand correctly, OP has taken Algebra 1 in the 7th grade and failed, then retook Algebra1 this year in the 8th grade. We need to know what his/her grade is. Hopefully after two years of Algebra 1 OP doesn’t need to take it a third time.
In addition, the sequence is: Algebra1A, Algebra1B, Short Geometry, Short Algebra2/Quantitative reasoning, or could be Algebra1A, Algebra1B, Geometry1A, Geometry 1B/Quantitative Reasoning (for kids with an IEP). The 1A/1B sequence covers a unit of content over two years, which allows for a lot of drills and repetition.
A student would be placed in it due to remedial math placement in middle school.
If OP took Algebra in the 7th grade (ie., 2 years advanced), such a placement as a slow math sequence doesn’t seem appropriate.
OP, is that a recommendation by the Middle School GC? The High School GC? Your own personal question?