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Vicksburg board approves hands‑on K–5 science curriculum after teacher presentations
Summary
After a teacher presentation emphasizing inquiry and teacher usability, the Vicksburg Community Schools board approved a new K–5 science core (TCI) to replace the district’s prior program; the motion passed with one dissent during the voice vote.
Vicksburg Community Schools voted to adopt a new hands‑on K–5 science curriculum after two elementary teachers presented the program’s classroom benefits and implementation plan.
Teachers Michael Shimp (fourth grade) and Sammy Buell (second grade) told the board the proposed TCI program emphasizes inquiry, hands‑on exploration and STEM connections and includes an online teacher component to support lesson delivery and substitutes. "Science is all about curiosity," Shimp said, describing the program’s focus on experiments and guided questions to spark student engagement.
The presenters said the district will replace its existing Serial City materials with TCI and that the recurring annual cost is comparable to similar online licenses the district already pays. "We budgeted about $14,000 a year for Serial City," a presenter noted, and said TCI’s per‑year cost aligns with other classroom subscriptions the district renews.
Both teachers described training plans included with the purchase: half‑day grade‑level pull‑outs for teachers, optional summer modules and in‑district support. The presenters said the program met the district’s curriculum review criteria and aligns to required standards.
Board members pressed for evidence of effectiveness and cost comparisons; presenters said the district reviewed multiple programs and selected TCI after evaluating standards alignment, usability and vendor‑provided training. After discussion the board moved to approve the K–5 science core resource. The motion carried; during the voice vote one board member said they opposed the motion.
Next steps described by presenters include scheduling teacher training and integrating the program into grade‑level PLC work. The board packet and the presenters’ cost comparisons are available on the district website.
