West Hartford officials outline '3D' science standards rollout; superintendent flags Feb. 27 special election will affect schools

At the Feb. 20 West Hartford Board of Education meeting, district curriculum leaders described their plan to align instruction with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) using a three-dimensional approach.

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Paul Vicinus, Director of Elementary Education Kerry Jones and Director of Secondary Education Anne McKernan told the board that NGSS shifts instruction to emphasize three core dimensions—content, scientific practices and crosscutting concepts—often described as "three-dimensional learning" or "3D." They said the district has been preparing for these shifts over the past four years and that the next two years will focus on continued professional learning and curriculum realignment, including alignment of secondary frameworks and Advanced Placement courses with College Board expectations.

Board members pressed presenters on how students who enter the district mid-year will be brought up to speed; staff indicated that this concern is being addressed through implementation planning and professional learning time.

Superintendent Tom Moore also reported that a special election is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2019, and will take place during school hours. "The safety of our students is our first responsibility," Moore said, and he described measures including security stationed in designated areas and designated parking for voters.

The board did not take a final vote on curriculum policy at the meeting. It set several March meeting dates, including a March 5 presentation of the superintendent’s budget and subsequent budget workshops.