Board hears recommendation to adopt updated AP Environmental Science textbook

Revere Local staff recommended adopting the 4th edition of the AP Environmental Science textbook to improve alignment with the College Board's revised course and exam description.

Marsha, the presenter, explained the new edition reorganizes material into nine units that mirror the College Board’s course structure and adds "module 0" to establish baseline analytical skills. "After we update some of the 4th edition, we are recommending the adoption of the 4th edition of environmental science for AP," she said, noting the edition includes updated case studies and free-response questions that better match current exam expectations.

The teacher who will use the book requested a class set plus a digital bundle; Marsha said she typically requests a three-year digital bundle and will acquire a class set with extra copies for students on IEPs or 504 plans who need a physical copy at home. The presenter estimated the cost as "not looking at tens of thousands... we're probably looking at, like, 3 to 4000," and said she would confirm the final quote once the vendor provides pricing.

Board members asked about parental access to materials. The presenter and administration agreed to make sample materials available and to notify parents through ParentSquare so families can review content before the formal reading and vote. The item was positioned for a first read next week with a fuller presentation planned at the subsequent meeting.