The April 24, 2025, Board of Education Business Meeting for the Greenwich School District focused primarily on the recommendation of new textbooks for Advanced Placement (AP) courses and Spanish language classes. The meeting commenced with Mr. D'Amico presenting three textbook recommendations on behalf of committee members Lucy Areco, Sean Hoyt, and Jeffrey Shanker. He expressed gratitude for the efforts of the textbook review committees, emphasizing the importance of thorough assessments in selecting educational materials.

The board's initial review highlighted the need for new resources due to the discontinuation of current textbooks for AP Physics C and Spanish, as well as the misalignment of the existing AP Psychology textbook with the College Board's updated curriculum. Mr. D'Amico noted that feedback from staff, parents, and students regarding the proposed textbooks has been overwhelmingly positive.

Discussion ensued regarding the timeline for purchasing the textbooks, which hinges on board approval. Concerns were raised about the implications of cutting funding for these resources, particularly for AP courses, where the lack of updated materials could hinder class operations. The board members acknowledged the rigorous review process that textbooks undergo, which includes input from students and teachers.

A significant portion of the conversation revolved around the format of the textbooks, with some members expressing a preference for hard copies over eBooks due to concerns about comprehension and screen time. However, others defended the benefits of eBooks, citing their ability to provide updated resources and interactive features that enhance learning.

Margaret Jackins, a Spanish teacher at Greenwich High School, emphasized the outdated nature of the current Spanish textbook, which dates back to 2013. She advocated for the adoption of new materials that align with modern language learning practices, moving away from rote memorization towards proficiency-based instruction.

The meeting concluded with discussions about the anticipated life cycle of the new textbooks and the challenges posed by publishers' decisions to discontinue certain editions. The board acknowledged the need for ongoing evaluation of educational resources to ensure they meet the evolving needs of students and align with academic standards.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing the quality of education through updated and relevant instructional materials, while also navigating the complexities of budgetary constraints and the evolving landscape of educational resources.