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District ELA curriculum review moves from research to pilot stage; DESE Implement Network, EdReports and Curate used to winnow options
Summary
The district’s ELA curriculum council described its DESE‑aligned review process, data analysis pointing to continued work on writing stamina and foundational reading, plans for fall pilots of selected programs and professional development in the science of reading.
The district’s ELA curriculum council updated the school committee on a multi‑phase curriculum review guided by DESE’s Implement Network and using EdReports and Curate reviews to narrow instructional‑materials options.
Council members — representing K–12 teachers, special educators and instructional coaches — said they began a November “learn and prepare” phase that included a district literacy survey and an analysis of MCAS, i‑Ready and local classroom data. That diagnostic work led the group to prioritize writing stamina and development across grades and greater emphasis on explicit foundational skills and vocabulary instruction in early grades.
The council described the DESE four‑phase cycle (Learn & Prepare; Investigate & Select; Launch; Implement & Monitor). Using desk reviews and publisher presentations, the council winnowed potential curricula to five candidates and plans to reduce that number to two programs for an elementary and a middle‑school pilot in the fall. Representatives said they would continue to use the Foundations program for early literacy where it is showing gains in K–2.
Professional development: The council said it has provided district PD on the science of reading and plans follow‑up training; district teachers are adopting SMART goals related to authentic learning and self‑efficacy. The high school reported item‑level MCAS analysis showing a relative weakness in idea development for argument writing, and the high‑school team said it has been working on transfer goals and possible authentic publications and peer writing centers.
Why it matters: Curriculum selection and implementation affects classroom instruction, professional development needs and budget planning. Council members said the phased approach helps the district anticipate resource needs and avoid simultaneous large purchases across departments.
Next steps: The council will complete pilots, finalize a selection recommendation and prepare an implementation plan and PD schedule for the selected materials.
