District reports early gains from new K–5 science curriculum; teachers see more inquiry and cross‑curricular learning

Murfreesboro City Schools presented an update Dec. 9 on the rollout of Studies Weekly Explore Science for kindergarten through fifth grade, saying teachers have received materials and professional development and early classroom observation shows increased student engagement.

Miss Arnett thanked the board for approving the curriculum. Taylor Brown, the district's science and social studies coordinator, described implementation steps: distributing materials in May, ongoing professional development through PLCs and science networks, and sustained in‑class modeling and coaching. Brown said teachers are using "driving question boards" and that students are engaging in investigations that foster curiosity, critical thinking and connections to literacy and math.

Board members asked practical questions about materials (totes of supplies and weekly kits) and cross‑curricular benefits. Brown said each teacher receives roughly three totes of materials with bagged supplies for each week’s lessons and that the curriculum functions as more than a weekly reader: "It’s ultimately the textbook," Brown said.

Board members praised observed student eagerness and fidelity to the curriculum; administrators said the launch has been successful and training will continue through the semester.