Mehlville R-IX board adopts Amplify Desmos for K–5 math curriculum

The Mehlville R-IX Board of Education voted unanimously Wednesday to adopt Amplify Desmos as the district's elementary mathematics program for grades K–5 and to fund the associated professional development.

Michelle Neese, director of mathematics, told the board the district followed a multi-year curriculum cycle and a structured review process that included representation from every elementary campus, a semester-long classroom pilot of three finalists, and a 12-point rubric to evaluate resources. Neese said the recommended program supports ‘‘deep foundational number sense, purposeful blended learning, embedded instructional routines and problem-based application opportunities.’’

Neese described plans for a two-year external professional development package from Amplify Desmos followed by in-house coaching and job-embedded visits: ‘‘There will be coaches from Amplify who will be there with them five times at each campus to support our teachers in action,’’ she said.

During discussion, a board member asked whether parents would still be able to help their children with math under the new approach. Neese responded, ‘‘Well, I think a 10,’’ and said the curriculum includes parent communication supports and the district is considering additional parent nights to explain instructional methods.

The motion to approve the purchase of Amplify Desmos materials and professional development for grades K–5 was moved, seconded and carried 7–0.

The board will now oversee implementation plans, scheduled summer training and classroom coaching next year, with the district curriculum team monitoring teacher supports and student assessment benchmarks.