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Saucon Valley board approves new K–5 ELA curriculum combining structured literacy, decodables and Lexia
Summary
After presentations by elementary staff, the Saucon Valley School Board approved a K–5 English-language arts adoption that pairs a knowledge-building program with structured literacy, decodable readers and Lexia software; board members praised teacher work but debated budget timing and training needs.
The Saucon Valley School Board voted on March 11 to adopt a new K–5 English language arts curriculum that combines four components: a knowledge-building program (Arts and Letters), a structured-literacy phonics program (95% Group), decodable texts (Geodes), and Lexia Core5/PowerUp for individualized practice.
Elementary staff and curriculum leaders presented the proposal, describing a "rectangular" model that places knowledge-building at the center and pairs it with explicit phonics instruction and decodable texts. "This will really, really enhance, especially third through 5, and it will give a consistency k through 5," the presenter said during the overview of how the four components work together.
Board members and teachers described a lengthy review process that included elementary and some middle-school staff. Supporters said the package emphasizes evidence-based, structured literacy practices and a consistent K–5 approach; several board members and administrators praised the teachers' work on the selection process. During discussion, board members raised budget concerns and asked about implementation fidelity, professional development and the timeline for training and materials.
Administrators said most of the adoption cost is a one-time purchase for materials and that the district plans training for teacher leaders and spring professional development sessions; they said teachers would have materials in hand before the start of the next school year. The administration asked the board to approve the adoption now so training and materials distribution could begin this spring and summer rather than wait for the final budget cycle.
The board approved the curriculum. Several members stressed that implementation fidelity, ongoing professional development and budget oversight will be necessary. Administrators said the district will report back on implementation and professional development timelines during upcoming Academic & Personnel committee meetings.
