District committee recommends adopting Illustrative Mathematics for K–8; board asks for full cost breakdown before consent vote

After a districtwide RFP and multi‑stage evaluation, MMSD staff recommended adopting Illustrative Mathematics (Imagine Learning) for kindergarten through eighth grade, citing its problem‑based approach, vertical coherence and embedded language supports for multilingual learners.

The process began with RFP 4155 and an internal screening that used external reviews (EdReports), user‑experience criteria, and alignment to a math instructional vision grounded in equitable access. A 40‑member evaluation and selection committee—representing 21 schools and multiple central‑office functions—narrowed 16 vendor submissions to three finalists (I‑Ready, Reveal, and Illustrative Mathematics) and ultimately recommended Illustrative Mathematics. The committee cited that Illustrative Mathematics emphasizes student sense‑making, low‑floor/high‑ceiling tasks that allow entry for all learners, and a coherent K–12 progression already used in some high‑school courses.

Presenters were explicit that the resource requires a deliberate, multi‑year implementation plan with sustained professional learning and leadership development in each building. The district proposes a phased rollout: middle school implementation in 2026–27 and elementary preparation in 2027–28, with embedded supports for special education and multilingual learners. Presenters highlighted that Illustrative Mathematics does not require devices for students (digital materials are available but optional) and includes family‑facing materials such as unit letters and videos.

Board members focused questions on implementation costs and supports: whether the district will need to purchase supplemental materials or manipulatives, who will provide professional development (vendor, district, or external partners), how the curriculum aligns to Wisconsin standards and the Forward exam, and how the adoption will address long‑standing racial gaps in achievement. Staff answered that Illustrative Mathematics is Common Core/Wisconsin‑aligned and that professional development would be a vendor‑district partnership, supplemented by local partner organizations; they said they will provide a multiyear cost estimate and a consent memo at the monthly board meeting for a vote.

Several board members voiced support but said they could not vote without seeing full cost projections (materials, PD, potential supplements) and an implementation timeline showing school‑by‑school staffing and coaching plans. District staff said they will return with the requested budget and implementation details before the consent vote.