District math committee selects new curriculum after rigorous evaluation process

In a vibrant gathering at the District 49 Board of Education meeting on April 23, 2025, educators and administrators united under a shared mission: to enhance the math curriculum across all grade levels. The evening was marked by a palpable sense of urgency as board members and committee leaders discussed the pressing need for curriculum updates, particularly in mathematics, which had not seen significant resources since at least 2015.

Mr. Smith, a key figure in the discussions, emphasized the critical lack of alignment in the K-12 math curriculum, a concern echoed by many during the meeting. He noted that the district had faced challenges in math performance, particularly at the high school level, prompting a thorough review of existing practices. "We need to make some adjustments in terms of our curriculum," he stated, highlighting the importance of a cohesive approach that builds upon students' skills year after year.

The meeting transitioned to Mr. Scheck, who led the math curriculum committee formed in December. His enthusiasm was evident as he shared the collaborative efforts of teachers, administrators, and parents who came together to evaluate potential new math programs. The committee's goal was clear: to ensure that students receive a consistent and effective math education from kindergarten through high school.

The committee reviewed six math curriculums, including Innovimet, IntoMath, and Eureka Squared, using a rubric that assessed their effectiveness based on state rankings. After thorough presentations and discussions, the committee narrowed their choices down to one standout curriculum, which they presented to the board for consideration.

As the meeting progressed, the board members engaged in discussions about the pros and cons of the selected curriculums, weighing their potential impact on student learning. The collaborative spirit of the committee was evident, as they sought to align their findings with the district's strategic priorities, ensuring that math performance would be a focal point moving forward.

The evening concluded with a sense of optimism and determination. The board's commitment to improving math education reflects a broader understanding of the challenges faced by students and educators alike. As they look ahead, the district aims to foster a learning environment where every student can thrive in mathematics, laying a strong foundation for their future academic endeavors.