Gresham‑Barlow board adopts Amplify elementary science curriculum in $467,000 purchase

The Gresham‑Barlow School Board on March 5 approved the district’s elementary science adoption, voting to purchase the Amplify curriculum in a not-to-exceed amount of $467,000.

Heidi Lasher presented the curriculum review process: a committee of teachers, administrators and special educators reviewed four ODE‑approved curricula using an evidence‑based “look‑for” document, gathered parent and student feedback during pilot work, and piloted Twig and Amplify before teachers gave a unanimous recommendation for Amplify.

Lasher said the Gresham Barlow Education Foundation has committed matching funds for science kits to accompany the adoption so classrooms have sufficient hands‑on materials rather than sharing single kits across multiple teachers.

Director Sean moved to adopt the curriculum (seconded by Chris); the motion carried by voice vote recorded at the meeting as unanimous (7–0). Board members asked about implementation timelines and teacher training; staff said materials would be implemented in the fall with training in April to prepare teachers.

The motion authorizes procurement up to the stated maximum; the district will finalize purchases and coordinate distribution of kits to elementary schools. No appraisal of long‑term recurring curriculum costs was discussed at the meeting beyond the authorization.