Board hears math and ELA curriculum update for middle and high schools

District administrators briefed the board on a multi-part continuous-improvement review of middle- and high-school curriculum.

For middle-school math, staff said Illustrative Mathematics emphasizes conceptual understanding, problem solving and coherent grade-to-grade progressions while supporting accelerated students and English learners via digital and Spanish-language resources. "One of the things that I love about Illustrative Mathematics is that it promotes mathematical conversations with kids and they just get to talk with each other about the learning that they're doing and the strategies that they're using," said Jennifer Schwarz, a sixth-grade PUMA teacher.

Seventh-grade teacher Ashley Dilman described problem-based learning as helping students discover concepts: "One of my favorite lessons is when students get to learn and discover what pi is to them... they get to apply it. They discovered it on their own." Teachers said the program provides digital lessons, manipulatives and multiple examples teachers can use for differentiated instruction.

At the high-school level, staff reported adopting Reveal for Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry; a geometry teacher, Miss Hayes, said the lessons frequently integrate foundational algebra skills and include both digital and paper practice options to suit different lesson goals.

For grades six through eight, administrators reported using My Perspectives for ELA and that the district was awarded a CLSD (Comprehensive Literacy State Development) grant to fund additional professional development and training. Staff said the grant has funded training sessions (8–11 a.m. PD blocks) and a special session for special-education staff to support interventions.

Teachers described improved assessment results for some previously non‑proficient students and said the combination of digital and paper resources allows for better differentiation and student ownership of learning.