Board hears revisions to anthropology and sociology curricula; new sociology textbook recommended

At the education committee on May 7, Kevin Wagner, program supervisor for social studies, presented comprehensive revisions to the district’s anthropology and sociology electives aimed at tightening learning goals, essential questions and disciplinary skills.

Wagner said the anthropology curriculum was reorganized to emphasize four themes (cultural, biological, social and linguistic), add a hands‑on archaeological unit and highlight career pathways that include forensic and medical anthropology. “One of the things we do is provide actual hands‑on practical experience,” Wagner said, describing a simulated dig site used for student labs.

For sociology, the committee reviewed a condensed document that reduced the former 16 units to 10 and focused on micro and macro approaches, emphasis on vocabulary and alignment with the Pennsylvania State Standards and the C3 framework. Wagner and the sociology teacher reviewed five textbooks and recommended the one that most directly aligns with the American Sociological Association’s national standards and provides an adaptable online text with semiannual updates and integration with the district’s learning management system.

Board members asked about prerequisites and access to digital content. Administrators said the entire textbook is digitized but the district plans to purchase classroom sets (not individual student subscriptions) and will rely on in‑class access and issued digital codes for students with extended absences. The committee recommended moving the curriculum revisions and textbook recommendation to the full board next week for approval.

Next steps: the board will consider formal adoption in the upcoming meeting.