Granite School District approves new ELA curriculum for grades 6 to 8

The Granite School District Board of Education made significant strides in educational leadership and curriculum development during their March 4, 2025, meeting. The board officially welcomed Erin Bittner as the new principal of Farnsworth Elementary School, recognizing her dedication and contributions to the district. Bittner, who has served in various teaching and administrative roles, expressed gratitude for the support of her family and the community.

In addition to leadership appointments, the board focused on the adoption of new English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum materials. Dr. Converse presented a detailed review of the proposed curriculum, emphasizing the importance of aligning educational resources with Utah's core standards to enhance student achievement. The board is recommending the adoption of the HMH Intro to Literature curriculum for grades 6-8, which aims to provide a structured and engaging learning experience for middle school students.

The decision to adopt this curriculum was based on extensive feedback from teachers and parents, highlighting its strong alignment with educational standards and its potential to support diverse learning needs. However, the board decided against adopting the curriculum for grades 9-12, opting instead to pursue ancillary materials that would better meet the needs of high school students, who generally prefer more choice in their instructional tools.

The meeting also included discussions about the ongoing review of AP Psychology materials, which are being carefully evaluated to ensure compliance with state legislation. The board's commitment to thorough scrutiny of educational materials reflects a proactive approach to curriculum adoption, ensuring that resources are both effective and relevant to the needs of students.

As the board moves forward, they will continue to engage with the community and educators to refine their curriculum offerings, aiming to foster an environment that prioritizes student success and educational excellence. The next steps will include further discussions on the ancillary materials and the ongoing review of instructional resources, reinforcing the district's dedication to providing high-quality education for all students.