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Board approves Spanish literacy adoption, pledges support for Amigos Unidos expansion
Summary
After a consultant review, the board approved adopting the Benchmark Adelante Spanish literacy curriculum for the Amigos Unidos dual-language program and allocated $72,593.50 for materials and multi-year implementation supports; staff described a five-year plan and initial high-school course development for students matriculating from the K–8 program.
The Stillwater Area Public Schools board approved a curriculum adoption and implementation package for the Amigos Unidos dual-language immersion program, endorsing Benchmark Adelante for Spanish literacy and committing $72,593.50 for materials and initial professional development.
Staff said a consultant (paid approximately $18,500) conducted a program review that identified strengths — committed teachers, engaged families and strong enrollment growth — and gaps, including a need for aligned Spanish literacy materials, professional development and curricular scope and sequence. The adoption package is intended to support a phased five-year plan to strengthen alignment, provide teacher PD and expand course offerings as students matriculate to high school.
District staff noted the first Amigos Unidos cohort will enter ninth grade next year; the district plans to offer targeted ninth-grade courses (Temas Globales and other Spanish offerings) and cohort scheduling to maximize course access. Presenters cited STAMP proficiency assessments showing students performing above national averages in primary cohorts as evidence of program strength.
Board members voted to adopt the curriculum; the motion passed 6–0.
