4200
CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
In order to achieve its annual instructional goals, the Board of Education supports a collaborative approach to district curriculum development. Such an approach must recognize the interrelation of a "core" curriculum and effective instructional processes, as well as interdisciplinary applications and articulation of programs from one level to the next.
A "core" curriculum will include basic content area knowledge and related skills, with the realization that such information needs continuous updating. Curricula will also be designed to encourage transferable concepts/skills, including critical thinking skills. The Board is committed to providing district students and staff with appropriate instructional materials to implement curricula. In addition, all students are assured equal access to courses of study, regardless of national origin, race, color, religion, creed, marital status, sex or disability.
The Superintendent shall work with other district administrators to integrate current educational theory and research on curricula design, and successful instructional strategies practiced by comparable districts. Teachers and program directors are directed to use state syllabi, supplemental materials and handbooks for general curricular guidelines; however, the Board encourages instructional staff to create individualized, flexible curriculum guides and original instructional materials. Such materials shall reflect a sensitivity to district students, their concerns, learning styles, and changing developmental abilities/needs.
Parents and members of the community are also encouraged to provide feedback on district curricula and instruction. The Superintendent will consult with Building Principals, teachers, students and the community in order to develop a responsive curriculum, and to promote a continuing review and upgrading of such curriculum. To this end, the Superintendent shall periodically invite community input using a curricula assessment questionnaire or other means. This information, along with input from citizens' advisory committees, will be considered annually in evaluating and revising district curricula.
Curriculum changes will take into consideration the results of state and local testing/classroom evaluations, reflect at a minimum the requirements of the state, and address further needs of the community and student population. The Board expects administrators and staff to work together in evaluating the educational program and recommending changes or additions in courses, programs, instructional methodology, and/or staff development activities which are necessary to implement such changes and/or additions. Curriculum planning meetings will be held in each department at least once each school year to plan curriculum changes and course offerings.
At its meetings, the Board will hear regular reports on curriculum-related matters, such as instructional programs, the work of curriculum committees, and periodic evaluation of specific curriculum areas. The Superintendent will also be responsible for implementing curriculum studies, including pilot projects, as authorized by the Board.
Cross-ref: 4319, Science and Math Instruction 4200
4325, Compensatory Education
9450, Staff Meetings
Ref: Education ''1709(3); 1711(5)
Adoption date: