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Teachers and administrators describe new math and ELA curriculum rollouts
Summary
Scottsbluff teachers and administrators described the district's use of Illustrative Mathematics (middle school), Reveal (high school), and My Perspectives (grades 6–8), citing stronger conceptual learning, classroom engagement, accessibility features and early signs of improved student outcomes.
District curriculum leaders and classroom teachers presented updates on math and ELA programs at Bluffs Middle School and Scottsbluff High School, describing instructional approaches and early classroom results.
Middle-school teachers described Illustrative Mathematics as a problem-based program emphasizing conceptual understanding, mathematical conversation and real-world applications. "One of the things that I love about Illustrative Mathematics is that it promotes mathematical conversations," Mandy said, and teachers noted the curriculum's coherence and an accelerated pathway for students needing more challenge.
Jennifer Schwartz, a 6th-grade Puma teacher, highlighted accessibility features: "I especially love the digital component where I can download the teacher presentations, and I can tailor them to my specific classes," she said, noting a Spanish-version and online access for absent students. Ashley Domen, a 7th-grade teacher with eight years using the curriculum, pointed to improved student understanding and test scores as evidence the program is supporting deeper learning.
At the high-school level, staff described the district's use of Reveal for Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry. "This year's going really well, especially in the geometry curriculum," Miss Hayes said, describing frequent practice of algebraic foundations within geometry lessons and multiple formats (paper and digital) for practice and assessments.
For middle-school ELA, the district has adopted My Perspectives and received a Comprehensive Literacy (CLSD) grant that funded additional professional development this year, including special-education trainings and support for EL students. An ELA teacher recounted a success story of students who moved from non-proficient to proficient on state testing after using the program, attributing gains to student-centered lessons and differentiated bridge texts.
Administrators said the district will continue professional development and monitor outcomes as the programs are implemented.
