Ferguson Florissant Schools approve pilot program for Jump Math curriculum

The Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for students. A significant focus of the meeting was the district's dual credit programs and the transition from the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) to St. Louis Community College (STLCC) for advanced coursework.

During the meeting, board members highlighted the differences in student success rates between UMSL and STLCC. It was noted that while UMSL's dual credit program, which involves district teachers becoming adjunct faculty, has shown higher passing rates, the shift to STLCC is primarily driven by cost considerations. The district aims to provide more affordable options for students while maintaining quality education. This transition is part of a broader strategy to balance educational excellence with budgetary constraints.

In a related development, the board discussed recent state legislation that, pending the governor's signature, will allow additional dual credit classes to be transferred to any public school in Missouri. This legislative change is expected to facilitate the transfer of credits from STLCC to four-year institutions, addressing concerns that some credits were not being accepted, which could prolong students' time in college.

The meeting also touched on the district's International Baccalaureate (IB) program, with an announcement that graduates will be offered automatic admission to UMSL. This partnership is seen as a positive step for students and reflects the district's commitment to providing pathways to higher education.

Another important topic was the potential pilot of a new K-5 math curriculum, Jump Math, as the district approaches the final year of its current program, Eureka Math. The administration is seeking approval for this pilot, which is projected to be budget-neutral by offsetting costs from the existing curriculum. The board is keen on ensuring that any new curriculum meets the educational needs of students while being financially sustainable.

In conclusion, the Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education is actively working to enhance educational offerings through strategic partnerships and curriculum evaluations. The anticipated changes in dual credit programs and the introduction of a new math curriculum reflect the district's commitment to improving student outcomes while navigating budgetary challenges. The board's decisions in these areas will likely have lasting impacts on the educational landscape for students in the district.