Curriculum director reports record NWEA scores, pilots planned for math adoption and social‑studies standards

At the May 11 meeting the district curriculum director reported strong assessment results and described progress on the district’s strategic plan. The director said NWEA growth and achievement results “look the best they’ve ever looked” and that South Dakota state assessments had just concluded, though detailed state data remained embargoed.

The director explained the district is in year one of a new social‑studies curriculum aligned with recently approved state standards and that a planned five‑year math adoption will include a pilot next year to determine whether to update current materials. The district implemented professional learning communities (PLCs) this year and expanded paraprofessional training to align professional development with classroom needs.

The director also noted a three‑year partnership with Black Hills State University funded through a Department of Education grant, with this spring’s activities focused on assessment and a writing emphasis planned for next year. Communications efforts include a new district website, an app, and adoption of Thrillshare; district social‑media posts have generated substantial reach in the local community, the director said.

The board asked questions about piloting the math materials and the director said staff will return with pilot results before any final adoption. The director emphasized that assessment reporting and some numeric details remain preliminary until embargoed state data are released.