Governing board adopts Savvas social‑studies curriculum for grades 6–8
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Summary
After a yearlong RFP, pilot and public‑review process the board unanimously approved Savvas (formerly Pearson) for middle‑school social studies, funded from capital funds for four years of print materials and teacher guides.
The Litchfield Elementary School District Governing Board unanimously approved Feb. 10 the adoption of Savvas as the district social‑studies curriculum for sixth through eighth grades.
Mrs. Benjamin, who led the adoption committee, described a process that began with an RFP, four vendor proposals, a teacher committee that piloted two finalists and a public review period that opened in October and remained available in the district office. Pilots were completed by six teachers; the committee narrowed proposals to National Geographic (Cengage) and Savvas, and then checked alignment to Arizona social studies standards and 'hot topic' coverage before choosing Savvas.
Under the approved plan Savvas will provide textbooks and optional workbook companions (teachers will have both print and online resources), with capital funds used to purchase four years of print materials so the expense does not affect operations (M&O) budgets. The committee recommended textbooks in hand with built‑in scaffolds and literacy supports; for eighth grade Savvas will provide civic text in print and free online American history content.
Board members asked about committee representation (some campuses had no teacher volunteers) and about professional development; administration said Title II funds will pay vendor trainers and the district will provide follow‑up support.
The adoption takes effect for the upcoming implementation timeline: teachers to receive materials this spring, district training this summer and required classroom use beginning in the fall term.