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Spring Lake Park Schools approves K–12 social studies curricular study; district outlines resource recommendations
Summary
The Spring Lake Park Public Schools board approved a K–12 social studies curricular study after a multi-year review. Presenters recommended core resources and a professional learning rollout; the board passed the study approval and signaled next steps on ordering and training.
The Spring Lake Park Public Schools board on April 14 approved a K–12 social studies curricular study after a multi-year review of potential core resources and instructional frameworks.
Dr. Hopron introduced the presentation and turned it over to Jenny Zimmerman and Christy Cray, who summarized a three-year review process that involved teacher design teams, parent input and a rubric-based vetting of potential materials. "We are here tonight to give you a shortened version of that," Zimmerman said, describing the research, design-team work and the criteria used to evaluate materials.
The design teams recommended a suite of resources: a resource identified in the presentation as SAVIS for K–5 and secondary social studies (American studies, U.S. history, world history, economics, government and civics); McGra Hill for geography courses; and continued use of Northern Lights for grade six while awaiting an updated edition. Presenters said the secondary core would be digital while the K–5 resources would be print. They also noted smaller, subject-specific materials for electives such as sociology and psychology.
The presenters emphasized that professional learning and curriculum mapping will accompany any resource adoption so teachers can navigate materials and align instruction to the district's K–12 social studies framework. "We want to make sure that each of our social studies teachers has a deep understanding of the social studies framework," Cray said.
Board members praised the inclusiveness of the review and the significant teacher and parent involvement. The board then took the added action item to approve the curricular study as presented; the motion to approve was made by Vala, seconded by McClullen, and passed on a voice vote.
What happens next: district staff said they will align resource orders to staffing levels and student enrollment, plan professional learning this summer and through the 2026–27 year, and proceed with ordering the recommended materials so teachers can implement them in the 2026–27 school year.
Provenance: Presentation and discussion occurred during the board’s curriculum update and the later action item to approve the curricular study (presentation introduced SEG 066; board approved the curricular study SEG 1112–1125).
Speakers quoted or referenced: Dr. Hopron (presenter), Jenny Zimmerman (teacher on special assignment, learning and innovation), Christy Cray (learning and innovation coordinator), Vala (board member), McClullen (board member).
