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District expands CSU-funded ERWC training for middle-school ELA teachers
Summary
District trainers and county partners described rollout of expository reading and writing curriculum (ERWC) modules for grades 6–8, saying an August 2025 cohort of middle-school teachers has been certified under a CSU grant; staff noted materials and initial training were grant-funded but future funding is uncertain.
Redwood City School District staff on Feb. 4 presented a progress update on a CSU-funded rollout of expository reading and writing curriculum (ERWC) modules adapted for middle-school English language arts.
Sarah Cullum, a middle-school literacy coach, described how a cohort of district ELA teachers trained beginning August 2025 in ERWC modules designed for grades 6–8, which pair complex grade-level texts with embedded pathways for English learner support. "The modules have complex grade-level text and very clear articulated needs pathways with options for teachers to select to specifically address learning needs," Cullum said. Cathy James, also a middle-school coach, said the district hosted county training and that many teachers signed up immediately when the modules were previewed.
Presenters said the CSU grant covered training and provided trade books and that follow-up sessions by CSU faculty and trainers were offered in January. Staff emphasized the program's alignment with the district's adopted Amplify curriculum and California's ELA/ELD frameworks, and noted teachers are blending ERWC modules with existing units to support SBAC-type performance tasks.
Board members praised the emphasis on relevance and English-learner pathways and asked about sustainability. Staff said the initial materials and two days of stipends were covered by the grant, the county has offered training to other districts, and ERWC leaders are seeking additional funding; asynchronous/online options may be available in the future but next-year funding remains uncertain.
Presenters said district teachers have reported positive early feedback, that the curriculum supports college- and career-focused reading and writing skills, and that the district will continue monitoring implementation and teacher uptake.
