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Board adopts new secondary science curricula after two‑year pilot; teachers cite hands‑on gains
Summary
Following two years of piloting and ISASP proficiency gains at several sites, the board approved Lab‑Aids (SEP UP/C‑Pup) and McGraw's Inspire Science for secondary grades 6–12, emphasizing hands‑on labs, ELL supports and remote 'LabSent' resources.
The Waterloo Community School District board on April 27 approved new secondary science materials after a two‑year review and classroom piloting.
Shari Orban, coordinator for secondary curriculum and advanced programs, presented teacher‑led evidence that five secondary buildings showed proficiency gains on ISASP piloting Lab‑Aids and Inspire Science. Teachers described lessons built around anchoring phenomena, hands‑on labs, and supports for English‑language learners; teachers also highlighted LabSent materials for absent or remote students.
Several board members asked whether the materials reflect local Iowa phenomena and whether consumable and equipment costs would be manageable. Teacher presenters said the curriculum is adaptable and that training in August and collaborative planning will align lessons to local contexts.
The superintendent’s recommendation to adopt SEP UP (Lab‑Aids) and Inspire Science for specified courses was approved by voice vote.
What to expect: the district will implement training and order classroom and classroom‑set materials; middle‑school sets are configured for cooperative use and high‑school classrooms will retain textbooks on site with digital access available.
Sources: Curriculum adoption presentations and teacher testimonies during the Waterloo CSD board meeting, April 27, 2026.
