Fort Zumwalt adopts Amplify CKLA for K–5 after yearlong teacher review

The Fort Zumwalt R-II Board approved a districtwide adoption of Amplify CKLA (third edition) for grades K–5 and Amplify decodable texts for grades K–2 after a yearlong review and unanimous recommendation from teacher review teams.

What the presenters said: Jen Waters introduced Lara Ermeling, the district’s K–5 ELA curriculum coordinator, who described a process that included 16 schools, K–2 and 3–5 teacher cohorts, use of the Reading League and Knowledge Matters rubrics, vendor learning walks to neighboring districts, classroom trials, and teacher surveys. Ermeling said teams narrowed state‑approved resources from three to two and ultimately chose Amplify CKLA because it offers complex texts across grades, clear standards alignment, integration with the district’s 95% phonics core program, and easier teacher preparation while preserving teacher craft.

Classroom evidence: Ermeling read a quote from a first‑grade teacher who piloted Amplify CKLA lessons: “The engaging multimedia resources and hands on activities sparked a contagious enthusiasm among my students… We saw a remarkable increase in student engagement.” The presenter said both cohorts voted unanimously in January to move forward with adoption and implementation.

Board action and next steps: The board approved the curriculum guide as presented. Staff provided a curriculum guide and year‑at‑a‑glance documents and said implementation planning will follow, aligned with the district’s LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training and the 95% phonics program already in place.

Ending: The board approved the adoption by voice; staff will coordinate training and materials rollout with schools before classroom implementation.