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Vendor Says Early K–8 Diagnostics and Integrated Blended Materials Key to Closing 'COVID Slide'
Summary
Curriculum Associates presented national and vendor data showing enlarged learning losses from spring and summer closures, urged rapid K–8 diagnostic testing, recommended integrated assessment‑instruction platforms (i‑Ready) and called for expanded PD and print/online blended materials to reach students without reliable broadband.
On July 7 Curriculum Associates told the Senate Education Committee that pandemic‑era interruptions will produce a larger than normal fall knowledge gap and urged rapid roll‑out of diagnostic testing and integrated instructional materials.
Debbie Smith, vice president for government relations at Curriculum Associates, said spring and summer data point to a COVID‑related learning loss substantially larger than the typical summer slide. The company recommended K–8 diagnostic assessments to identify prerequisite skill gaps and to place students on individualized learning paths. Smith said districts using the company’s i‑Ready tools can generate prerequisite reports and route students into targeted instruction that supports both typical and “stretch” growth goals.
The vendor emphasized equity considerations: where broadband access is limited, districts should combine online tools with printed take‑home materials and parent guidance. Smith said Curriculum Associates has provided free PD and materials during the spring and summer and that about 40% of the company’s staff work on implementation and professional development.
Committee members asked whether the vendor’s diagnostic tools support off‑site testing and how the company helps teachers and families. Smith said vendors are negotiating off‑site administration options and the company provides PD, parent guidance, downloadable take‑home packets and print materials that can be sent with students.
What next: the vendor urged the state to prioritize high‑quality materials, invest in PD that helps teachers shift to blended instruction and deploy diagnostic assessments early in the fall so educators can target instruction and avoid long‑term learning losses.
