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Waterford board adopts new K–5 English language arts curriculum
Summary
The board approved a new K–5 English language arts curriculum integrating the science of reading, interdisciplinary units and a stronger writing focus; the motion passed by voice vote with no recorded opposition.
The Waterford Board of Education voted to adopt a new kindergarten through fifth‑grade English language arts curriculum, approving materials designed to embed the science of reading across instruction and emphasize writing from early grades.
Board members and administrators said the curriculum organizes K–5 instruction into four units per grade that incorporate art, science and social studies texts; presenters described how the five pillars of reading and structured interventions are integrated into lesson design. The presentation noted the district previously requested a materials waiver to make instructional content available while the full curriculum review was underway.
"We started with an Elementary ELA literacy vision to encapsulate the science of reading into the context of what's best for Waterford," the superintendent said, outlining alignment steps and teacher involvement. A board member praised the work: "I really like the part where you're stressing the importance of writing... it starts in kindergarten," and another called the interdisciplinarity "very cool."
The board moved to adopt the K–5 ELA curriculum and approved the motion by voice vote; no members recorded opposition during the vote. Administrators said they will continue to support implementation through professional development and by pairing the ELA materials with forthcoming revisions in math and other content areas.
Next steps: implementation support, continued professional development and alignment work with math, science and social studies curriculum revisions.
