Board considers English 3D curriculum for English learners after state audit recommendation

Geneva CUSD 304 administrators told the board June 15 they are recommending English 3D, a curriculum package from HMH, be added to the district's K—2 English learner (EL) resources and placed on display for review before a future adoption vote.

"We landed on English 3D which is from HMH," said George as he outlined the proposal, describing the program as addressing the "three dimensions of language learning" (interaction, academic language and literacy) and offering a mix of hands-on materials and an adaptive computer platform that can provide teacher data. He said the recommendation responds in part to a recent state board of education audit that urged more robust EL instructional resources.

George told trustees the program emphasizes asset-based teaching that treats students' home languages as strengths and supports learners from newcomers through grade 12. The district currently serves roughly 185 EL students, he said, and staff noted HMH offers professional learning opportunities aligned to district needs.

Board members asked about longevity and update cycles for the materials; presenters explained the digital platform is updated centrally and the district typically re-evaluates hard-copy materials on a five- to 10-year cycle. The materials will be put on display for bilingual and EL teachers to review before returning to the board for possible approval.

Next steps: the English 3D instructional materials will be available for staff and board review and the administration will bring a recommendation for adoption at a future meeting.