District staff previews $150,000 Cambridge digital ACT prep purchase
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Summary
Administrators said they will recommend switching more ACT preparation to Cambridge's digital platform to match the test format; the anticipated cost is $150,000 and staff will return with a contract recommendation.
District staff told the board June 26 they plan to pursue Cambridge test-preparation materials and online practice to support students now taking the ACT. The package under consideration would convert paper-based Cambridge materials the district used previously into online practice that more closely mirrors the digital ACT format; staff estimated the investment at $150,000.
Why it matters: staff said students now take the ACT online and the digital practice would better prepare them. Staff reported mixed teacher feedback about moving away from paper booklets; teachers liked paper copies but also expressed a need for digital practice that replicates test conditions.
Details: staff said Cambridge currently provided paper booklets for some grades and that the district is exploring Cambridge's online practice and practice-assessment offerings. Staff also discussed a separate "boot camp" option that remains under consideration but not ready for board action. Questions from board members included whether the platform offers mobile apps and whether the materials can be used for at-home practice; staff said Cambridge provides assigned digital activities and practice that students can use outside school but did not confirm an app.
Next steps: staff said they will fine-tune the proposal and return to the board with contract details when ready for approval.
Ending: board members asked staff to confirm platform access options and clarify teacher and student digital supports before the contract is presented for approval.
