School board prepares new K-12 curriculum and updates intervention strategies for struggling learners
March 06, 2024 | Scranton SD, School Districts, Pennsylvania
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The Scranton School District's SSD Education Committee convened on March 6, 2024, to discuss several key updates regarding curriculum and educational resources. The meeting focused on the ongoing efforts to enhance K-12 educational materials, intervention strategies for struggling learners, and the implementation of new STEM programs.
The meeting began with a review of the need to reorder K-12 materials and student licenses, which are set to expire in June 2024. The committee is currently gathering quotes for essential resources, including reading, math, and secondary social studies materials. Additionally, intervention materials for special education and English Language Learner (ELL) students are being sourced to support those who may struggle with core subjects.
Director Merkel highlighted the importance of updating curriculum writing, particularly in music, technology education, and social studies. The committee is preparing for a future motion to present these updates to the school board for approval.
A significant portion of the discussion centered on the evaluation of the Study Island benchmarking tool, which has been in use since 2021. Feedback from educators prompted the committee to explore alternative options through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process. The committee is currently vetting two potential tools that include intervention components to better support students following benchmark assessments. A vote on this matter is expected next week.
The meeting also addressed advancements in STEM education. The curriculum team is finalizing new 10th-grade courses, including pathways in computer science, medical, and engineering fields. The application process for incoming 6th graders has closed, with 135 applicants vying for 60 spots. Project-based assessments will commence on March 14, with decision letters sent out in mid-April.
In addition, the committee reported on student achievements in regional competitions, including the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS), where 30 students will advance to the state level. The district is also fostering partnerships with local organizations to enhance STEM learning opportunities, including hands-on experiences in medical fields.
Lastly, the committee discussed the upcoming implementation of structured literacy, a state mandate requiring all Pennsylvania school districts to adopt new literacy teaching methods. Training sessions for educators are scheduled to begin in April, with ongoing professional development planned to ensure a smooth transition.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed about the progress of these initiatives and the outcomes of upcoming votes. The SSD Education Committee remains focused on enhancing educational resources and support for all students in the district.
The meeting began with a review of the need to reorder K-12 materials and student licenses, which are set to expire in June 2024. The committee is currently gathering quotes for essential resources, including reading, math, and secondary social studies materials. Additionally, intervention materials for special education and English Language Learner (ELL) students are being sourced to support those who may struggle with core subjects.
Director Merkel highlighted the importance of updating curriculum writing, particularly in music, technology education, and social studies. The committee is preparing for a future motion to present these updates to the school board for approval.
A significant portion of the discussion centered on the evaluation of the Study Island benchmarking tool, which has been in use since 2021. Feedback from educators prompted the committee to explore alternative options through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process. The committee is currently vetting two potential tools that include intervention components to better support students following benchmark assessments. A vote on this matter is expected next week.
The meeting also addressed advancements in STEM education. The curriculum team is finalizing new 10th-grade courses, including pathways in computer science, medical, and engineering fields. The application process for incoming 6th graders has closed, with 135 applicants vying for 60 spots. Project-based assessments will commence on March 14, with decision letters sent out in mid-April.
In addition, the committee reported on student achievements in regional competitions, including the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS), where 30 students will advance to the state level. The district is also fostering partnerships with local organizations to enhance STEM learning opportunities, including hands-on experiences in medical fields.
Lastly, the committee discussed the upcoming implementation of structured literacy, a state mandate requiring all Pennsylvania school districts to adopt new literacy teaching methods. Training sessions for educators are scheduled to begin in April, with ongoing professional development planned to ensure a smooth transition.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed about the progress of these initiatives and the outcomes of upcoming votes. The SSD Education Committee remains focused on enhancing educational resources and support for all students in the district.
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