Kennett extends Benchmark phonics, adopts Aimsweb screener and Reveal algebra textbook

Kennett Consolidated School District on May 13 approved multiple curriculum and assessment actions intended to support reading and math instruction across grades.

Doctor Collins presented implementation data from a one-year Benchmark Education phonics rollout and said Kennett posted notable growth — "the highest growth … with our English learners" in the district's materials summary. The board voted to extend the district’s contract with Benchmark to secure phonics materials and digital licensing and to continue professional development associated with the program.

Separately, after a committee evaluation, the board approved the Reveal Algebra 1 textbook for Kennett Middle School and Kennett High School, with math staff describing the evaluation process and curricular sequencing that informed the selection.

The board also approved Pearson’s Aimsweb Plus as the district’s universal screener and progress-monitoring tool to better align with structured literacy goals and to strengthen progress monitoring for students not meeting grade-level standards. Training was scheduled to begin upon contract approval.

Board members discussed the district’s broader shift to structured literacy and the costs of previous materials; administration said professional development for teachers is included in current contracts and that the district will seek to recoup funds by selling older materials where appropriate.

Next steps: administration will implement training for Aimsweb Plus, finalize Benchmark materials procurement and continue the multi-year professional development plan tied to the phonics program.