Board approves grades 6–12 social-studies curriculum, removes New Britain history course for revision

The New Britain School District Board of Education on March 4 approved a new social-studies curriculum for grades 6–12 but removed the proposed New Britain history course for further revision after several board members said it omitted significant local material.

"This curriculum is very lacking," Board member Tony Kane said during a lengthy exchange criticizing the proposed New Britain history unit for not naming local inventors, entrepreneurs or notable residents he expected to see listed, and for giving only a quick overview. Kane urged additions including local historical figures and inventions he said are part of the city's heritage.

Other board members and staff raised process questions about how much content can reasonably be covered in a half-year course and whether expanding the unit to a full-year offering would affect scheduling and access. Curriculum staff asked that suggested edits be funneled through the board president to the superintendent so revisions can be evaluated for standards alignment and schedule impact.

Board members debated whether to delay approval for all social-studies materials; ultimately the board rescinded the previous full approval motion and approved the social-studies curriculum for grades 6–12 with the New Britain history course removed for further work. The vote was taken by voice; the transcript records "Aye" for approval and does not record a roll-call tally.

Superintendent Dr. Gasper and curriculum staff said they would accept specific, written suggestions and return revised proposals to committee for further review. Board members asked for attention to balance and to avoid duplicative rework by staff.