Millbrae School Board approves McGraw Hill math curriculum for enhanced student engagement

The Millbrae Elementary School District (MESD) Board convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss the adoption of a new mathematics curriculum, marking a significant shift in instructional practices aimed at improving student outcomes in math. The meeting highlighted the need for a new curriculum following the State Board of Education's adoption of a new math framework in February 2023, which emphasizes equity and excellence in education.

The discussion began with a review of California's performance in mathematics, where it continues to lag behind the national average. Data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) indicated that California's fourth graders scored an average of 230, below the national average of 236, while eighth graders scored 270 compared to the national average of 274. In Millbrae, while 62.6% of students met or exceeded math standards, significant disparities were noted among subgroups, with only 19.3% of special education students and 25.6% of Hispanic students achieving the same.

The board reviewed the two-year process of selecting a new curriculum, which included piloting various programs. The pilot team ultimately recommended the McGraw Hill curriculum, citing its alignment with the new framework and its focus on student engagement and accessibility. Teachers reported that the McGraw Hill program provided a more interactive learning experience compared to the previous Eureka Math curriculum, which was criticized for its lack of engagement and support materials.

Feedback from teachers and students during the pilot phase indicated that the McGraw Hill curriculum offered better resources, including manipulatives and digital tools, which enhanced student engagement. However, some areas for improvement were identified, such as the need for more practice problems and better teacher preparation resources.

The board also discussed the financial implications of the new curriculum, with the McGraw Hill program costing approximately $450,639 over eight years, significantly less than the illustrative math option, which was quoted at $618,000. The board emphasized the importance of ongoing professional development and support for teachers to ensure successful implementation.

Looking ahead, the board plans to launch the McGraw Hill curriculum with a professional development session scheduled for August 12, 2025. This session will include grade-level discussions to tailor the curriculum to specific needs across different grades.

In conclusion, the MESD Board's decision to adopt the McGraw Hill math curriculum reflects a commitment to improving math education and addressing equity gaps among students. The board's thorough review process and emphasis on teacher and student feedback underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing educational outcomes in Millbrae.