Doctor Garganigo outlines district curriculum updates and new course proposals

The September 3, 2025, Board of Education meeting for the School District of Clayton focused primarily on curriculum updates presented by Dr. Garganigo. The meeting began with a reminder of the district's curriculum review process, which operates on a six-year cycle for each content area. Dr. Garganigo emphasized the importance of the board's role in approving the district-developed curriculum annually.

Dr. Garganigo outlined the self-study process that occurs in the first two years of the cycle, where each content area undergoes evaluation and input from the Teaching and Learning Advisory Council, which includes board members, parents, and administrators. In the spring of the second year, the board is presented with long-range goals and financial considerations for curriculum approval.

The presentation highlighted several new courses and curriculum revisions aimed at enhancing student engagement and aligning with state standards. Notable new offerings include "Amped on Algebra," a combined algebra and business course designed to provide real-world learning experiences, and "Walking Fitness," which reflects a shift in physical education offerings to better meet student needs.

Dr. Garganigo also discussed significant revisions to middle school literacy and math curricula, ensuring alignment with state standards and increasing the volume of reading and writing. The curriculum for Latin and Spanish courses has been updated to make the subjects more relevant and engaging for students.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the reinstatement of musical theater courses at the high school level, allowing students to participate in theater studies without the requirement of being involved in after-school productions. This change aims to broaden access to the arts for students.

Minor adjustments were also noted, particularly in elementary social-emotional learning (SEL) and phonics instruction, to create a more structured and engaging learning environment for younger students.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to continuous improvement in curriculum development, ensuring that educational offerings are both relevant and aligned with state standards. The board's approval of these updates will be crucial in shaping the educational experiences of students in the Clayton School District.