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Centennial board adopts new K–12 social science curriculum after yearlong pilot
Summary
After a yearlong review and teacher‑led pilot, the Centennial School Board approved TCI materials for K–8 and McGraw Hill for high school. The adoption follows teacher and student pilots, community viewing meetings, and an approval vote recorded at the May 13 meeting.
The Centennial School Board voted May 13 to adopt new social science instructional materials after a yearlong vetting process that included teacher committees, pilot lessons, student feedback and community previews.
Director of Curriculum April Olsen summarized the process: the district narrowed state‑approved options, conducted teacher pilots (minimum two lessons per publisher), collected teacher observations and student surveys, and held community viewing events. The selection criteria emphasized alignment to Oregon’s 2024 social science standards, cultural responsiveness (including tribal history and ethnic studies requirements), student engagement and teacher usability.
Elementary and middle‑school teachers recommended materials from publisher TCI (Social Studies Alive/History Alive), citing digital access, printable materials for classroom use and strong student engagement in pilots. High‑school teachers recommended McGraw Hill’s Oregon edition for its state alignment and representation across race, ethnicity and multiple perspectives.
Board members asked detailed questions about community engagement turnout, pilot scores and potential barriers related to digital access. Olsen said the district will provide teacher supports, enable limited in‑house printing for elementary student workbooks where appropriate, and purchase supplements such as Newsela to support culturally specific readings and differentiated instruction.
On a roll‑call vote, the board approved the recommendation to purchase and adopt the recommended materials; the transcript records that the motion passed with board members voting in favor during the evening session. Staff said final purchasing details will be refined to balance fiscal stewardship and teacher needs.
Ending: The district will complete standards alignment, mapping and implementation planning for the 2026–27 school year and return with final budget figures and rollout details to the board.
