Bettendorf Middle School adopts Amplify ELA curriculum for improved literacy education

In a pivotal Bettendorf School Board meeting held on April 23, 2025, educators from Bettendorf Middle School unveiled significant updates to their literacy curriculum, marking a transformative step in enhancing reading instruction for students. The meeting, characterized by a collaborative spirit, showcased the dedication of teachers and administrators to improve literacy outcomes through a structured and evidence-based approach.

The journey began last school year when 22 teachers participated in Lexia Aspire training, aimed at equipping secondary educators with a solid foundation in the science of reading. This initiative was crucial, as many middle school teachers lacked formal training in this area, which is typically emphasized in elementary education. The training laid the groundwork for a comprehensive curriculum evaluation process that commenced in January 2025.

As the team navigated the curriculum adoption process, they engaged in vendor presentations and evaluations, ultimately narrowing their options to three potential curricula. The selection process involved a diverse committee of 13 educators, ensuring that various perspectives, including those of special education and English language learners, were represented. This collaborative effort culminated in a unanimous decision to adopt the Amplify ELA curriculum, which was praised for its engaging content and built-in support for diverse learners.

Key strengths of the Amplify curriculum highlighted during the meeting included its wide range of topics, integration of various text types, and built-in scaffolding for students requiring additional support. The curriculum also features a flexible pacing guide, allowing teachers to adapt lessons based on student needs, which is particularly beneficial in a middle school setting where learners often have varying levels of proficiency.

Looking ahead, the district plans to implement the new curriculum across all grades in the upcoming school year, with professional development sessions scheduled for June to ensure teachers are well-prepared. The commitment to continuous evaluation and improvement was emphasized, with educators expressing confidence that this new curriculum will address the gaps left by the previous lack of a structured program.

As the meeting concluded, the excitement among educators was palpable, reflecting a shared belief that these changes will significantly enhance literacy instruction and ultimately benefit students in Bettendorf Middle School. The collaborative efforts of the faculty and the thoughtful selection of a curriculum rooted in the science of reading signal a promising future for literacy education in the district.