Ionia Public Schools board approves new reading curricula and an AP Language class

The Ionia Public Schools Board of Education on March 16 approved multiple curriculum actions aimed at strengthening literacy instruction and expanding coursework at the high school.

Associate Superintendent Alicia Simons and IMS teacher Amy Fuller presented the IMS reading curriculum, and the board approved the purchase by a 7-0 vote after Secretary Marhofer moved and Treasurer Ellis supported the motion. Later in the agenda, Simons and a team of literacy coaches and elementary teachers—Kelly Ramsey, Courtney Spitzley, Christina Stedman-Garlick, Jessica Lafler and Jenny Jantezke—presented an elementary reading curriculum that the board also approved 7-0, with Trustee Montgomery moving and Trustee Shippey supporting.

In a separate action, Simons and IHS teacher Laura Thaxton proposed creating an AP Language and Composition course at Ionia High School. Trustee Shippey moved the class creation, Treasurer Ellis seconded, and the board approved the course 7-0. Board members at the meeting praised teacher presenters and noted expectations that the changes will support higher student literacy and offer advanced coursework at IHS.

The approvals were unanimous; the motions were recorded as carried 7-0. The board did not record amendments to the purchase or course proposals during the meeting. The curriculum purchases and the new AP class will proceed under the district’s implementation timelines and piloting plans provided by administration.