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An Explanation of the Curriculum Cycle

Six Year Curriculum Review Cycle

Purpose of Cycle

1)       Provides a logical sequence of activities for revising and updating curricula

2)       Assures a consistent, scheduled examination of all areas in a six year cycle

3)       Facilitates a K-12 perspective

4)       Allows for controlled budgeting, limiting large adoptions to different years

5)       Provides consistent input to the Board regarding curriculum renewal

6)       Allows professional development to interface with the implementation of new curricula

Overview of Cycles      

Year 1

Awareness/Research

Year 2

Development/Piloting    

Year 3

Integration/Revision

Years 4-6

Implementation

Year

Focus

Year 1

Year of Awareness: This year focuses on the research of best practices, review of existing programs, examination of vendor materials/presentations and site visitations. Specifically, this step allows the curriculum committee:

  • to cross-reference the existing program with current best practices, standards and the use of technology
  • to investigate how other districts are meeting the needs of students through visitations and/or conferences
  • to create a shared vision for the future of the curricular area
  • to identify potential programs and invite vendors to present materials
  • to develop a needs assessment

Year 2

Year of Development:  This year focuses on providing the committee with a closer look at programs determined to have potential for implementation. Specifically, this step involves: 

  • reviewing the findings of the research year
  • piloting programs
  • monitoring how these programs interface with student needs, best practices, and the strategic plan
  • formally evaluating the pilot
  • recommending program/material adoption to the School Board
  • planning staff development
  • purchasing new materials
  • writing curriculum (spring/summer) 

Year 3   

Year of Integration:  This step focuses on formally integrating the selected program into the targeted grades/areas. Specifically, this step focuses on: 

  • continued revision, augmentation and diversification of the curriculum 
  • development of common assessments and rubrics 
  • professional development

Years 4-6          

Year of Implementation:  The program is fully implemented with continued focus on student performance, best practices, state standards and common assessments. Renewal is an ongoing, dynamic process that creates opportunities for teachers, under the supervision of the Director of Curriculum and Instruction, to make appropriate changes and revisions if necessary and appropriate.