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District presents $270,000 K–12 visual arts adoption in first reading
Summary
Superintendent staff presented a first reading of a K–12 visual and performing arts curriculum recommendation including Art of Education and Davis materials; the recommended materials total $270,000 and the staff outlined phased implementation and training to expand equitable access across 18 schools.
District academic leaders presented the first reading of a recommended K–12 visual and performing arts adoption at the May 24 meeting.
Dr. Shelley Bowden, chief academic officer, said the adoption is anchored to the district’s strategic plan goals of equitable access, consistent instruction and community engagement. "This adoption focuses on the reduction of gaps for student groups, strengthening student wellness and ensuring students are prepared for both college and career," Bowden said.
Tammy Kaufman, the district visual and performing arts facilitator, described the recommended package: Art of Education (flex and pro) for elementary and introductory high‑school art; Davis curriculum for middle‑school visual arts and high‑school drawing/painting/graphic design; and graphic design materials that include Adobe/Photoshop pathways. Kaufman said the choice emphasizes flexibility, standards alignment and teacher professional development.
Director Anne Arnold and others outlined the implementation timeline and cost. Arnold said the curricular materials recommended total $270,000 and described summer publisher‑led training, year‑long job‑embedded professional learning, and efforts to align art docents and community partners (the Schack Art Center) with the new curriculum.
Board members asked how the district will ensure equitable access for the six elementary schools that currently lack a dedicated art specialist. Staff said options include reallocating specialist FTE, hiring half‑time shared specialists, or using trained generalist teachers and docents to deliver standards‑aligned lessons until full specialist coverage can be funded.
No final vote on the adoption occurred at this meeting; the curriculum will return for a second reading as scheduled. Staff said they will continue planning implementation supports and partnerships with community organizations to expand access across all 18 schools.
Next steps: second reading of the K–12 visual and performing arts adoption at an upcoming meeting; summer training and phased implementation contingent on board approval.
