Millard board approves new ELA, science, FCS and PE frameworks and instructional materials
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Summary
The Millard Public Schools Board of Education approved four curriculum framework proposals and associated instructional-material recommendations, moving the district to update English language arts, science, family and consumer sciences and physical education ahead of a phased implementation next year.
The Millard Public Schools Board of Education approved four curriculum framework and instructional-material proposals on motions brought during its April meeting: the PK–12 English language arts framework (Part 1), the PK–12 science framework (Part 1), the 6–12 family and consumer sciences instructional-materials proposal and framework (Part 2), and the K–12 physical education instructional-materials and framework (Part 2). Each motion passed in roll-call votes.
The approvals are the first half of a multi-year curriculum cycle and are intended to align Millard teaching materials with updated state standards and local priorities. District staff said the approvals will lead to a year of pilot work, course-guide writing and materials piloting before full classroom implementation in the following school year.
District presenters described the process as collaborative and data-driven. “We really appreciated the opportunity to speak to the committee a few weeks ago and provide you with some information,” said Andy DeFries, who spoke for the curriculum team. Staff said the ELA framework drew feedback from about 250 teachers and a community focus group; the science framework updates reflect revisions to state standards; and the middle-school changes include new communications and drama electives intended to broaden student options.
Board members and district staff discussed pacing and next steps. Staff said the district will pilot or field-test recommended instructional materials and bring a field-study proposal for some content areas in May. For the ELA and other frameworks the district described a one-year delay between board approval and classroom rollout to allow for pilot studies, vendor selection, and course-guide development.
On family and consumer sciences, staff noted a program-budgeting placeholder of $172,650 that includes replacement of aging lab equipment (ovens, refrigeration and other lab items) that were reviewed during material selection. The board discussed how some equipment purchases may be phased across years depending on budget capacity.
Board members praised the district curriculum team and the large volunteer review process. Several members noted the district’s continuing emphasis on early literacy and the ‘‘science of reading’’ as a through-line across curriculum work. Staff said targeted reading supports will be added at grades 6–8 and that high-school course options will be adjusted so students get a guaranteed, coherent set of core texts while still allowing vetted optional texts and teacher choice within approved course guides.
Implementation timeline and next steps include: a field-study proposal in May for remaining material reviews, vendor selection and pilot in the coming school year, and full implementation in fall of the year after that. Staff said they will continue outreach to principals, teachers and community reviewers as they finalize course guides and materials.
Votes at a glance: All four motions were approved on roll-call votes (individual board members recorded “Aye” in the transcript).