Education Committee recommends Amplify and OpenUp as top curriculum choices for K-6

The Ogden City School District Board of Education convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss significant curriculum adoptions for grades K-6, focusing on two primary options: Amplify CKLA and EL Education published by OpenUp. The committee's recommendations highlighted the need for high-quality, knowledge-based curricula that align with the district's educational goals.

In grades K-2, the committee favored Amplify CKLA as their top choice, with EL Education as a close second. The committee's extensive evaluation process, which included a year of work and a reconvening to reassess options, underscored their commitment to selecting the best educational resources for students. The scoring for these curricula was notably close, indicating a competitive selection process that reflects the district's dedication to quality education.

For grades 3-6, the committee recommended EL Education as the primary choice, with Amplify CKLA as the alternative. The discussions revealed that while both curricula have their strengths, EL Education scored higher in supporting language learners, whereas Amplify excelled in digital resources and assessments. The board acknowledged the unique challenges of adopting two different curricula across grades, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a smooth transition for both students and teachers.

The financial implications of these recommendations were also a focal point of the meeting. The total cost for adopting Amplify CKLA for K-6 would be approximately $1.7 million, while the cost for EL Education would exceed $2.1 million. A combined approach, adopting Amplify for K-2 and EL Education for 3-6, would total just over $2 million. The board is now tasked with weighing these options, considering both the educational benefits and the financial commitments involved.

As the district moves forward, the board's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape for Ogden's students, ensuring they receive the best possible resources to support their learning and development. The next steps will involve further discussions and a final vote on the curriculum adoption, reflecting the community's commitment to educational excellence.