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MISD adopts STEMscopes math for grades 6'08 and Algebra I, expands on-level instruction to 90 minutes
Summary
The Midland ISD board approved STEMscopes math for sixth through eighth grades and Algebra I, backing a district plan that increases on-level seventh-grade instructional time from 45 to 90 minutes and creates aligned unit checks and assessments.
The Midland ISD Board of Trustees approved a new secondary math curriculum package Tuesday, adopting STEMscopes math for sixth through eighth grades and Algebra I and approving an implementation plan that raises on-level instructional time and standardizes assessments.
The board vote followed a district-led review that included classroom teachers (elementary and junior-high teachers), bilingual and special-services staff, counselors and building administrators. The proposal presented by the teaching-and-learning department called for: - A single, vertically aligned math curriculum K'through 9 (the district previously adopted STEMscopes for K'5); - On-level seventh-grade math instructional blocks expanded from 45 to 90 minutes, with built-in small-group instruction; - Common unit checks and 9-week/18-week/27-week assessments across campuses to give teachers more frequent, comparable data; - Professional learning: the purchase includes five days of initial training and an instructional leadership rollout; the district will use state improved instructional materials allotment (IMRA) funds to pay for the curriculum.
Why it matters: District data presented to trustees showed declines or persistent underperformance relative to the state in several secondary math measures (sixth- through eighth-grade meets-level performance and Algebra I). The math plan is intended to align curriculum, raise instructional consistency, and provide frequent assessments to drive instruction.
Cost and funding: The recommended STEMscopes package cost is $453,424 and includes print/online teacher editions, consumable student materials and five days of professional learning. The district said the purchase would be funded from its State Board of Education improved instructional materials allotment (IMRA) balance.
Implementation: The administration outlined a summer and school-year rollout: trainers-of-trainers, administrator briefings, teacher planning windows before school starts, and ongoing coaching. The district will follow state guidance for honors/advanced-course enrollment; under Senate Bill 2124 (state law), automatic sixth-grade placement in advanced math applies for students scoring in the top 40% on fifth-grade math STAR; parents may opt out.
Board action: Trustees voted to approve the RFP award for STEMscopes math and the associated professional-learning package unanimously.
Quotations "This resource gives teachers consistent, TEKS-aligned daily lessons and supports for emergent bilinguals," said a district math coordinator presenting the recommendation.
Ending: The district plans a phased rollout over summer and the 2025'26 school year; administrators said they will monitor implementation fidelity and student learning with the new common assessments.
