Farmington High deliberates new AP Calculus textbook adoption

The Farmington Public Schools Board of Education convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus curriculum, a move aimed at enhancing educational resources for high school students. The board highlighted the need for a new AP Calculus textbook, as the current edition has been in use since 2006 and is no longer aligned with the latest College Board standards.

During the meeting, educators emphasized the importance of providing students with updated materials that reflect current academic expectations. Gabe Renaud, a first-year teacher at Farmington High School, noted that the new textbook, "Calculus for the AP Course" by Michael Sullivan and Kathleen Miranda, offers a more structured approach to the curriculum, aligning closely with the College Board's guidelines. This alignment is crucial for students preparing for AP exams, as it ensures they are familiar with the format and content they will encounter.

The board discussed how the new textbook not only supports the AP Calculus AB and BC courses but also includes comprehensive review materials that will aid students in their exam preparations. The transition to this updated resource is seen as a vital step in maintaining the quality of education and ensuring that students are well-prepared for college-level coursework.

In addition to the textbook discussion, board members addressed the process for staying updated on changes from the College Board. They assured the community that teachers participate in professional development to keep abreast of curriculum updates, which helps them adapt their teaching strategies accordingly.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to providing students with the best possible resources to succeed academically. The board's decision to adopt the new AP Calculus textbook reflects a broader goal of enhancing educational outcomes and ensuring that students are equipped with the foundational skills necessary for their future studies.