The Springfield Township School District policy committee on Sept. 29 approved recommended edits to two curriculum-related policies: Policy 102 (Academic Standards) and Policy 105 (Curriculum). The changes clarify alignment with federal and state guidance and specify expectations for special observance instruction.

The committee chair introduced Policy 102, noting that the Pennsylvania Department of Education and PSBA recommend updating district policy to reflect the state's STIELS standards. Dr. Johnson explained that the change is largely clarifying language and does not materially alter the district's curriculum. "The items that Dr. Johnson has just mentioned are the only changes to this policy," the chair said.

On Policy 105, Dr. Johnson described new language requested by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Department of Education requiring direct instruction tied to certain observance days, such as Constitution Day/Citizenship Day and Arbor Day. The committee discussed how those observances differ from religious holidays. In response to a question from board member Mr. Jordan, Dr. Johnson said the directive does not mandate instruction tied to religious holidays and described the separation of church and state: "we can talk about it and provide information, but we're not celebrating it, per se within our schools." The committee also discussed developmentally appropriate expectations across grade levels and said the curriculum office will prepare implementation guidance for teachers and buildings after the policy decisions are finalized.

Outcome: Committee members present indicated they were OK to adopt the revised Policy 102 and proceed with the recommended revisions to Policy 105.

Ending: Staff will prepare implementation guidance that outlines grade-level expectations for observance instruction and return the policy as required for formal adoption.