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Board presented AP Biology and K–5 literacy adoption recommendations; Amplify CKLA price draws questions
Summary
District staff recommended adopting 'Biology for the AP Course' for AP Biology (pilot favored this text; estimated six‑year materials/licenses just over $10,000) and Amplify CKLA for grades 3–5 after a multi‑year pilot (recommended six‑year adoption cost just over $283,000). Board members questioned a $31,000 shipping and handling line item and asked for follow‑up on pricing and contract terms.
District staff presented two curriculum-adoption recommendations after multi‑year review and pilots.
AP Biology: The administration recommended adopting Biology for the AP Course for the district’s AP Biology class after a two‑year pilot that compared two texts. Presenters said the recommended text aligns closely with College Board unit sequencing, includes AP‑style practice assessments and an accessible reading level; teacher feedback averaged 4 out of 5, and about 90% of students rated the text a 4 or 5 in pilot surveys. The estimated cost for physical texts plus a six‑year digital license and teacher materials was described as “just over $10,000.”
Elementary literacy (grades 3–5): The district recommended Amplify CKLA after pilots of Amplify CKLA and Benchmark Advance. Presenters said Amplify aligned better with district literacy priorities (K–5 alignment, science‑of‑reading principles, differentiation, writing supports) and that teacher panels and individual feedback favored Amplify CKLA (about 90% of participating teachers on a review day endorsed it). The administration presented a six‑year adoption package that includes teacher materials, consumables, student readers and digital access; the total quoted cost was just over $283,000 for the district for six years.
Board questions focused on procurement and cost details. Board member Jake asked about a quoted $31,000 shipping and handling line in the Amplify quote and whether that could be negotiated; district staff said the line reflects the vendor’s packaging and kit components and said they would follow up with the sales rep on pricing and alternatives.
Next steps: Administration said both adoption items will be brought to the board for a vote next Monday, April 20, with materials ordered and teacher training to follow pending approval.
