Board approves Amplify ELA, Envision math for grades 6–8 and adds high‑school personal finance course

The Columbia Heights Public Schools School Board voted May 27 to adopt new middle‑grade curriculum materials and to add a high‑school personal finance course for 2025–26.

Director Tuckrell and coordinators Gartner and Matusovic summarized the district’s curriculum review and recommended adoption of Amplify for English language arts and Envision for grades 6–8 math. The board was also presented with a legislative requirement to provide a personal finance course at the high‑school level; the board approved adding that course beginning with the 2025–26 school year.

Board discussion reiterated that the materials and the adoption process were reviewed with teachers and made available for public review prior to the vote. The administration said families who want to review curriculum materials can contact principals or teachers or visit posted resources. The motion to approve the ELA and math adoptions and the personal finance course carried on a voice vote.

Why it matters: Adoption of updated ELA and math materials and the establishment of a required personal finance course will shape instruction and course offerings for incoming middle and high‑school students. Staff said the materials reflect district priorities and that teacher feedback guided the recommendation.

What’s next: The district will implement Envision and Amplify in grades 6–8 and add the new personal finance course to the high‑school catalog for 2025–26; teachers and coordinators will continue rollout and family engagement opportunities ahead of fall classes.