During a recent government meeting, educators discussed the implementation of a new math curriculum in junior high schools and its impact on students and parents. The curriculum, which utilizes the I Ready program, has been adopted in 91% of classrooms, with teachers actively engaging students in collaborative learning. Observations indicate that while there are initial challenges, such as students adjusting to new methods of communication and problem-solving, overall progress has been noted. Teachers are reportedly working diligently to address these challenges through professional learning communities and ongoing training.
Concerns were raised regarding the difficulties parents face in assisting their children with homework due to the differences in teaching methods compared to traditional approaches. One parent shared their frustration about their child’s math homework, highlighting the disconnect between how math was taught in the past and the current curriculum. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among parents who feel ill-equipped to support their children academically.
In response to these concerns, educators acknowledged the lack of direct feedback from parents but emphasized the availability of resources designed to bridge the gap. A parent portal has been established, along with family-friendly letters accompanying each unit, which outline the curriculum and include activities for parents to engage with their children. Additionally, tutorial videos are available to further assist parents in understanding the new methods being taught.
The meeting underscored the importance of ongoing communication between schools and families to ensure that parents feel supported and informed about their children's education. As the new curriculum continues to be implemented, educators remain committed to addressing both student and parent needs to foster a collaborative learning environment.