The School Board of Wisconsin is taking significant steps to enhance educational resources for students, particularly in Advanced Placement (AP) Government and fifth-grade English Language Arts (ELA). During a recent board meeting, members discussed the adoption of a new AP Government textbook and the ongoing evaluation of ELA resources, both aimed at improving student engagement and academic performance.

The board highlighted the need for a new AP Government textbook, as the current edition, dating back to 2014, does not align with the latest course content or exam requirements. Teachers involved in the selection process, including Mark Drake and Dave Thomas, conducted thorough research and vetting of several contemporary resources. They ultimately recommended "American Government: Stories of a Nation," which is expected to provide more relevant content and better support for students preparing for the AP exam. The new resource includes an online component, ensuring it remains current and engaging for students.

This decision comes after a public display period from April 28 to May 11, during which no feedback was received from the community, indicating broad support for the change. The board plans to vote on the adoption of this new textbook at their next meeting.

In addition to the AP discussions, the board reviewed the implementation of the Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) program for fifth graders. This initiative is part of a broader effort to align literacy instruction with the science of reading, following the mandates of the Act 20 early literacy law. The CKLA program has already been successfully implemented in K-4 classrooms, and the fifth-grade team is working to ensure a smooth transition for students moving up from elementary school.

Teachers and specialists involved in the CKLA review process have emphasized the importance of increasing literacy instructional time and aligning resources across grades. They have engaged in collaborative discussions with fourth-grade teachers to share insights and strategies, ensuring that the transition to fifth grade is well-supported.

As the School Board of Wisconsin moves forward with these educational enhancements, the focus remains on providing students with the tools they need to succeed academically and fostering a learning environment that adapts to their evolving needs. The upcoming decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape for students in the district.