It may seem like everything is changing in elementary schools this year. With a new focus on the science of reading, new curriculum materials, more efficient diagnostic screeners, and more time for direct instruction in literacy mean a lot of new learning.  

“With systematic instruction in phonics, decoding, and comprehension, we are confident we can improve reading outcomes for all learners,” said Jeremy Sorensen, director of elementary education.

For teachers and students, every lesson in reading, writing, math, and science is new this year. All elementary schools are using the following curriculum:

• Functional Phonics And Morphology, which are highly rated, evidence-based literacy curricula. 
• i-Ready Classroom Mathematics, which develops critical thinking and problem-solving in grades K-5. With an online companion, teachers assess student needs, personalize learning, and track progress.
• Amplify Science is a K-8 curriculum that uses hands-on activities, digital tools, and literacy to deepen students' understanding of science. Each unit asks students to explore a phenomenon as they take on the role of a scientist. For example, 4th graders act as systems engineers responding to blackout problems. Teachers track progress using Amplify’s assessment system.

Every child is unique, and students enter classrooms each fall with a wide range of skills. Assessing a classroom of students for reading used to take more than ten hours of instructional time. With 1:1 technology and new literacy and math screeners, we can pinpoint learning needs in less than an hour, allowing teachers to meet children where they are and move them forward more readily. It’s transformational for learning.

"Our teachers are meeting the challenge with collaboration, professionalism, and unwavering determination," said Rachel Hughes, Director of Instruction and Achievement. "We are truly fortunate to have such dedicated educators in our district, working tirelessly to ensure the success of every student."

In District 196, our vision is to provide experiences that develop the whole student, honor diverse needs and cultures, and engage students in academics, arts, and athletics to prepare them for lifelong success.