Board adopts new math materials for most grades; 7–8 to continue review

The Newman-Crows Landing Unified School District board approved instructional materials for mathematics on May 11 after a staff presentation and public hearing.

Curriculum lead Miss Vargas described a two-year evaluation involving TK–12 representatives, dual-language teachers and county office facilitation. She said the review prioritized equity, instructional quality and “fostering joy for learning.” Staff recommended adopting Amplify/Desmos for TK–6 and California Reveal for grades 9–12. Seventh and eighth grades will continue piloting Reveal and present a recommendation at the June board meeting.

Miss Vargas said pilot feedback included about 27 teachers participating across sites and noted the district prioritized a five‑year adoption window to balance evaluation time and fiscal responsibility. She provided order-of-magnitude five‑year costs in the presentation; staff cited approximately $140,000 for Amplify and $110,000 for California Reveal as estimates for curriculum, consumables, digital licenses, manipulative kits and professional development.

During board questions, trustees asked about screen time and whether materials would increase digital-only instruction. Miss Vargas said resources will be available in both print and digital formats and that the district intends a hybrid approach to limit screen time where appropriate.

The board approved the adoption by roll-call vote following the public hearing. The July–August professional-development schedule and digital license logistics will be finalized during implementation planning.