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Hammond board adopts new reading curriculum after debate over cost and rigor
Summary
The School City of Hammond board approved a new reading-textbook adoption May 12, 2026, endorsing a knowledge-based program (CKLA/Caminos) recommended by staff; trustees approved the item by unanimous roll call after questions about cost and teacher input.
The School City of Hammond Board of Trustees voted May 12 to adopt a new elementary reading curriculum recommended by district staff.
Dr. Denise Eisman, the district's director of elementary education, told trustees the committee piloted two finalists and recommended the knowledge-based program (CKLA/Caminos) because it raises classroom rigor, integrates bilingual Camino materials for dual-language students and includes handwriting and disciplinary supports. "We really need to up the rigor," Dr. Eisman said during her presentation.
The curriculum committee reported district reading scores have improved but still fall short of the district's goals; Dr. Eisman said the recommended program better aligns with the state's "science of reading" guidance and offers integrated science and social-studies knowledge strands. She told the board PLTW grants covered about $20,000 in related STEM materials; she also described teacher training plans and a multi-year rollout.
During discussion Trustee Spencer asked about price comparisons. Dr. Eisman responded that "Open Court came in at 1,300,000" as the comparative figure presented to the board, and she said teachers had been consulted during pilot evaluations. Trustees acknowledged the cost but emphasized outcomes. "Outcomes, it's all about the outcomes," Trustee Blake King said.
Trustee Spencer moved to approve the reading-textbook adoption; the motion was seconded and passed by roll-call vote with Trustees Candelera, Spencer, Guierra and Blake King voting yes.
The district will begin the implementation and professional-development plan described by Dr. Eisman, with phased purchases and teacher training. The board recorded that the dual-language Camino materials were considered part of the recommended option and that some cost comparisons excluded dual-language components.
The board did not attach a specific dollar-amount contingency to the adoption in the motion. Next steps: school staff will proceed with procurement and schedule training and classroom rollout as outlined by the director of elementary education.
