During the recent Board of Education Committee of the Whole meeting for Proviso Township High Schools District 209, held on June 26, 2025, significant discussions centered around the adoption of new curriculum materials for world language classes, specifically French and Spanish. The proposed investment of approximately $371,000 aims to replace outdated textbooks that are over six years old, ensuring that students have access to current resources.

The curriculum review committee, led by Dr. Hill, conducted an extensive evaluation of various options before recommending this particular program. The urgency for this update stems from the inadequacy of the current materials, which are not only outdated but also insufficient in quantity for classroom use. The board is expected to make a decision on this curriculum adoption in August, with plans to present a clearer visual timeline for future textbook replacements to aid in budget planning.

In addition to the primary discussion on world languages, the meeting touched on Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum needs. The district is looking to enhance its offerings in AP Spanish, particularly as more students are recognized for their bilingual capabilities. The proposed AP curriculum would provide comprehensive resources aligned with the College Board standards, which are essential for preparing students for AP exams.

The board acknowledged the challenges in expanding language offerings beyond Spanish and French, noting that interest in other languages, such as Japanese, has not materialized despite previous exploration. Currently, the focus remains on strengthening the existing programs to meet student demand.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to improving educational resources and planning for future needs, ensuring that students receive a quality education in world languages. The anticipated decisions in the coming months will play a crucial role in shaping the curriculum and budget for the upcoming academic year.