Chapel Hill Carrboro Schools commit to improving curriculum and addressing achievement gaps

The Chapel Hill-Carrboro Board of Education held a work session on May 1, 2025, focusing on the district's curriculum development and strategies to enhance student achievement. Key discussions centered on the need for a well-articulated curriculum that builds progressively from year to year, particularly for students who have been most affected by the pandemic.

During the meeting, administrators highlighted promising data indicating that achievement among Black, Latinx, and students with disabilities has doubled in some areas, suggesting effective learning is taking place. However, there is a pressing need to ensure that this progress continues, especially for students in third and fourth grades. The administration emphasized the importance of providing additional learning time, noting that students who attend summer school tend to perform better in subsequent years.

The conversation also addressed the challenges of implementing a cohesive curriculum across subjects. Administrators pointed out that many elementary teachers are generalists, making it difficult to adopt multiple new curricula simultaneously without adequate professional development. They stressed the importance of aligning resources and instructional strategies to support students effectively, particularly those who are struggling.

The board discussed the strategic value of longitudinal cohort data, which will help track student progress over time and identify areas needing intervention. This data will enable the district to make informed decisions about curriculum and resource allocation, ensuring that all students receive the support they need.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving educational outcomes through a well-structured curriculum and increased learning opportunities. As the administration prepares to engage further with school principals and staff, the focus will remain on fostering an environment where all students can thrive academically.