The Pennridge School District is making significant strides in enhancing its elementary science curriculum, with a strong recommendation to adopt the FOSS Pathways program for grades K-5. During the recent Policy, Curriculum, and Student Services Committee meeting, Christine Tamburino presented an update on the district's efforts to align its science education with the STEEL standards, ensuring students are well-prepared for upcoming state assessments.

Tamburino highlighted that after a thorough review of potential science programs, the FOSS Pathways curriculum emerged as the best fit for the district's needs. It offers comprehensive support for teacher onboarding and professional development, making it a sustainable choice for long-term adoption. The district plans to present a detailed proposal, including data and research, in the upcoming November meeting.

In addition to the science curriculum, the committee discussed the transition from the Making Meaning program to the new Being a Reader program, which will integrate essential comprehension components and address gaps identified in recent student performance data. The district has observed a decline in proficiency rates across grades 3 to 5, prompting a need for a more robust reading program that aligns with Pennsylvania's core standards.

The committee emphasized the importance of not solely relying on standardized test scores to assess student performance. They acknowledged the challenges posed by the transition to online testing and the need for targeted support for multilingual learners and students with special needs. The district is committed to addressing these issues head-on, with plans for ongoing professional development and data-driven instructional strategies.

As the Pennridge School District moves forward with these curriculum enhancements, the focus remains on ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed academically, preparing them for future assessments and fostering a love for learning in the process.