Shawnee Mission board approves $4.07 million adoption of I‑Ready math for K‑5

The Shawnee Mission School District Board of Education on Dec. 9 approved the adoption of I‑Ready math for kindergarten through fifth grade, a district recommendation administrators said will provide vertical coherence with the district's existing grades 6–8 resource.

Joanne Roach, curriculum coordinator for elementary math and science, presented the adoption after a pilot that began in August and included cadre-led professional learning. "Our recommendation is for I Ready math for K‑five classrooms," Roach said during the presentation, explaining that the resource is intended to support professional learning, classroom routines and targeted intervention.

Pilot teachers described classroom examples and student feedback. Third‑grade teacher Erica Sales said professional development has emphasized mathematical practices that promote reasoning and problem solving. Fifth‑grade teacher Jill Bridal described student reactions to the materials: some students “really enjoyed the workbook because it showed multiple strategies and ways to solve different problems.” Instructional coaches noted family letters and at‑home activities that make math visible to caregivers.

The board approved the purchase by a unanimous vote; the total cost to adopt the resource K‑5 is $4,071,196.88, to be paid from budgeted textbook funds. Administration said the purchase creates a vertical K‑8 instructional resource and includes ongoing professional learning and coaching supports.

Superintendent Dr. Schumacher and curriculum staff said they will continue to monitor implementation and invite trustees to observe cadre meetings and follow-up professional learning sessions.