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Kennewick board approves Amplify Core Knowledge K–5 language-arts adoption after 18-month pilot
Summary
After an 18-month review and a 75-teacher pilot, the board approved Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts for grades K–5; the contract is roughly $1.9 million with multi-year digital subscription and staged payments.
The Kennewick School District Board of Directors approved adoption of Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts for kindergarten through fifth grade after an 18-month review, a 75-teacher evaluation team, and a pilot year at district schools.
District staff presented the adoption recommendation and said the instructional materials committee (IMC) recommended the selection unanimously. The board approved the recommendation in a roll-call vote; district staff estimated the adoption cost at about $1.9 million with an eight-year digital subscription and a plan to review consumable replacements after five years.
District staff said the committee prioritized materials aligned to state standards and the science of reading, materials that build background knowledge, and curricular supports for teachers. Presenters said teachers in the pilot reported positive results in reading and vocabulary units. The district plans professional development and a phased implementation, with ongoing teacher feedback and district measures such as STAR and state assessments used to track outcomes.
Alyssa, a district staff member who led the presentation, summarized the process and evidence that led to the recommendation: the materials were piloted, posted for public comment, reviewed by the IMC, and negotiated to spread payments over time.
Board members praised the transparent process and expressed support for the adoption while noting careful stewardship of district resources. The board also noted the district secured more favorable payment terms than neighboring districts.
Superintendent Dr. Pierce and curriculum staff said implementation will include teacher training and regular feedback loops so the district can monitor student outcomes and adjust supports as needed.
