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ConVal board adopts CKLA K–4 literacy program after pilot showing gains in early grades
Summary
The Contoocook Valley School District board voted to adopt the CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) K–4 curriculum after a district pilot reported MAP reading gains in grades 1–2, unanimous teacher support in the pilot and a one-time teacher-materials cost of about $138,000. Concerns remain about scheduling instructional time.
The Contoocook Valley School District board voted to adopt the CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) curriculum for kindergarten through fourth grade following a literacy-committee pilot that the administration said showed reading-growth gains for lower elementary students.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Amy Forrest presented the committee’s review and recommendation, explaining the pilot considered student assessments, teacher logs and surveys and prioritized foundational skills, intervention supports for K–2, implementation feasibility and teacher endorsement. "The vote was 19 to 0, so it was unanimous," Dr. Forrest said of the pilot teachers’ recommendation.
The administration reported measurable MAP reading growth among participating first- and second-grade students and said grades 3–4 showed no decline. Dr. Forrest outlined costs: a one-time teacher-materials purchase of $138,000 and recurring student consumables and said the digital tools include a six-year license. She also flagged scheduling as a main implementation concern and noted the literacy committee is working on ensuring sufficient daily reading time.
Board members on the education committee and in the full board praised the data and teacher support. An education-committee member argued the program’s intervention resources may reduce special-education referrals by addressing early gaps that lead to IEP placements.
The board moved and approved the recommendation by voice vote. Dr. Forrest said the district will make materials available for board review and manage implementation planning, including schedule adjustments and professional development.
The board’s action formally adopts CKLA for K–4; the administration will return with implementation steps, timelines and budget details as the district phases in materials and training.
