The Worthington Schools Board of Education has taken a significant step towards enhancing science education by proposing the adoption of updated curricular resources during their recent meeting on May 13, 2024. The board is set to approve new physical science and biology textbooks that promise to improve online access and integration with the district's learning management system, Schoology.

The proposed physical science resource is an updated version of the McGraw Hill curriculum, transitioning from a 2017 edition to a 2021 edition. This new version includes features such as Learn Smart, an adaptive reading system that helps students check their understanding as they progress through the material. The curriculum team, led by Curriculum Leader Brian Genius, involved several teachers from Worthington Kilborn and Thomas Worthington High Schools in the selection process, ensuring a collaborative approach to resource adoption.

In addition to the physical science curriculum, the board is also considering a new biology resource from Savas Learning, replacing a 2010 McGraw Hill edition with a 2019 version. This resource is noted for its comprehensive materials and seamless integration with Schoology, allowing students and parents to access all necessary information from a single platform. Teachers involved in the selection process highlighted the importance of these resources in supporting effective teaching and learning.

The adoption process included a thorough review of multiple resources, with teams piloting options and narrowing down to the best choices based on quality and instructional support. The board emphasized that while the selected textbooks may not be the most current in terms of publication date, they are the best available options that meet the district's educational standards.

Community engagement is also a priority, as the proposed textbooks will be available for public review at local libraries and the Worthington Education Center for two weeks. Feedback forms will be provided for parents and community members to share their thoughts before the board seeks final approval at the next meeting scheduled for June 10.

This initiative reflects the district's commitment to providing high-quality instructional materials that support diverse learners and enhance educational outcomes in science.