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Middle school staff recommend three-year renewal with Amplify science program at $33,075
Summary
Teachers reviewed multiple science resources and recommended renewing the Amplify science curriculum on a three-year quote of $33,075; staff said Amplify aligns with Nebraska three‑dimensional science standards and mixes hands‑on labs with simulations.
Dr. Diaz presented the middle school’s science-curriculum review and recommended renewing the existing Amplify program on a three‑year quote of $33,075. Teachers had considered six resources, narrowed them to three and piloted units, Dr. Diaz said, and determined that Amplify aligns with Nebraska’s three‑dimensional science standards (disciplinary core idea, cross‑cutting concept and science/engineering practice).
“We currently have 75 percent of our students that are proficient on our science test...the program that we currently have is doing its job,” Dr. Diaz said, and teachers decided to proceed with a three‑year renewal — rather than a seven‑year contract — so the district can re‑evaluate after Amplify’s next materials review cycle.
Board members asked about hands‑on instruction. Dr. Diaz said hands‑on activities are mixed with simulations and digital components; she estimated hands‑on components might range from roughly 30% up to 70–75% depending on units and that the district provides materials and closets of equipment for experiments. Examples cited included a sixth‑grade lab on sunlight and heat lamps and outdoor water/landform activities.
The presentation framed the renewal as a recommendation from teachers and asked the board to note the $33,075 quote and the three‑year plan; no formal vote on the curriculum purchase was recorded during the committee meeting.
