Thu Nov 10 2022, 6:15pm
WHS Room 1204
Special Meeting

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Curriculum Update CKLA

In a debrief with staff on Monday we asked our staff for an update on implementation.

Summary of How the Implementation is Going

  • It is in fact highly aligned with the science of reading which is a major priority for us.
  • The lessons are engaging and students are finding the content and stories very interesting. Some are discussing topics over lunch which we’ve never seen before.
  • Student retention of information is shown to be stronger than in the previous curriculum because students are finding the content engaging. 
  • It is rigorous which is positive and challenging. For instance, we see students who typically struggle to try harder and persevere to achieve at higher levels. We think because they like the content. However, it’s challenging because then it requires us to scaffold lessons a bit which is taking a lot of time. We think once the curriculum is in use for more years we’ll have less need for scaffolding.
  • Planning for the lessons is taking a long time right now. 
  • There are a few stories in 4th grade that parents are uncomfortable with.  
  • There are some pieces that the curriculum points to but isn’t readily accessible (realia - pictures, etc).

Implementation Next Steps

  • Offer additional curriculum nights now that we have the materials.
  • Ensure parent letters with the curriculum are sent out in advance of units.
  • Provide additional planning days for staff to ensure adequate planning time.
  • Specific to fourth-grade stories, a team of teachers and instructional coaches are planning how to address content that parent-raised concerns over. Two of the stories are not in the core but are found in the enrichment section of the unit and likely will just be eliminated as they are necessary.
  • As policy indicates we will have the IMC committee review the story Good Lies story for potential removal.

We recognize we teach a community of readers and that literature will regularly offer multiple perspectives. That being said we wish to ensure sensitive content is addressed appropriately and at appropriate ages. We are paying attention as we map out upcoming units.