Canal Winchester board approves Into Reading K–6 adoption after pilot; $368,001.94 over six years

The Canal Winchester School Board voted 4–1 on Jan. 6 to approve a six‑year purchase of the Into Reading K–6 curriculum from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, including teacher and student print materials, digital licenses and initial in‑person and virtual professional development, at a cost not to exceed $368,001.94.

Board members and district instructional staff framed the decision as the end of a multi‑year review prompted by state guidance and the end of the district’s previous curriculum contract. "It is our recommendation since Into Reading is all green status on EdReports," said Craig Lautenschleger, director of elementary teaching and learning, during the board presentation.

The board heard that the district began a multi‑year evaluation in 2022–23 using the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce’s approved list and EdReports ratings. A steering committee of teachers piloted two programs — Into Reading and McGraw‑Hill Wonders — from August to December; 12 teachers piloted each program. Presenters said Into Reading met the district’s stated goals for a student‑centered, science‑of‑reading‑aligned program that provides scope and sequence, diverse texts and systematic literacy instruction.

During Q&A, board members pressed staff on pilot evidence and transition plans. "I don't think we collected that kind of data because the amount of time — this was a four‑month pilot," Lautenschleger said in response to a question about which pilot cohort performed at a higher level. District staff said the decision relied on teacher evaluations, classroom observations and vendor materials rather than comparative student outcome data from the short pilot.

Staff also described implementation and procurement plans. The board was told the adopted package covers teacher materials, student materials (digital and print), initial training and some coaching during year one, and that additional student licenses if enrollment grows would be charged later (district staff used the example of adding licenses if first‑grade enrollment increases). The district said the purchase was included in its planned curriculum cycle and budget for the six‑year period.

Board members asked about student data privacy. A presenter said the vendor "will fall under SB 29" and that district administrators would work with the vendor to meet local expectations for student data protections.

The final vote was: Monica Talley, yes; Mister Twist, yes; Angela Barnes, yes; Dave George, no; Miss Green, yes. The board approved the motion 4–1.

District staff said next steps are final procurement with the business office and planning professional development for staff in spring and summer so teachers can begin implementation at the start of the 2025–26 school year.