Curriculum Development In District #1

In a previous post, I discussed the dramatic improvements in standardized test scores made by District #1 over the past four years. During this time, one of the key improvements to our system has been the implementation of an aggressive process for developing a District-wide standards based curriculum and corresponding local assessments.

To date, the District has adopted formal curriculum and assessments in K-12 mathematics, reading, writing, science and social studies. Other areas such as physical education, health and special education have written curriculum and are scheduled to begin constructing assessments this summer. Our goal is to eventually have a formal written curriculum and corresponding local assessments for every subject taught in District #1. This has been a monumental task, but thanks to our Director of Curriculum (Tammy Elledge), our Department leaders, and our dedicated staff, we are well on our way.

The key component of this entire process is the data that results from our local assessments. This data, which our District did not have previously, is imperative to continuous improvement for two reasons. First, it allows teachers to specifically determine which aspects of the curriculum each students has mastered. This gives teachers the ability to differentiate instruction for individual students based on each student's needs as identified through the assessment results . Secondly, the assessment data provides a basis for meaningful collegial discussion about classroom teaching strategies and techniques. These discussions are a key component to our school improvement efforts.

I encourage you to visit our website at www.coalcity.k12.il.us where you can see our approved curricula for grades K-8 (9-12 will follow soon). It is important to note that this is an ongoing process. As teachers experience the curricula each year, they recommend revisions to take place over the summer. Therefore, be sure to check the website at the beginning of each school year to stay up to date on all curriculum revisions.