Board hears Defined Learning pilot, approves purchase of supplemental gifted curriculum for K–6

The board heard a presentation on the district’s pilot of Defined Learning, a standards‑aligned, project‑based supplemental curriculum used at Greenfield Elementary, and approved the purchase of a K–6 supplemental inquiry‑based curriculum for gifted students.

Brent Gardner, coordinator of advanced learning, described the program as focused on "acceleration and enrichment," and said the aspect the district is adopting emphasizes project‑based learning and student inquiry. Greenfield Principal Brian Lockwood and student speakers illustrated how students engaged in scaled‑model architecture projects and habitat design during the pilot, reporting high levels of engagement.

After questions from board members about implementation timing, classroom integration and evidence from peer districts, the board moved to approve the purchase of the supplemental resource for K–6 gifted students. Board members expressed appreciation that the curriculum provides ready‑to‑use teacher resources while noting material costs for hands‑on projects will still be required at schools.

Next steps: Staff will implement the supplemental resource as a supplement to existing curriculum, monitor teacher feedback and student engagement, and report implementation results to the board.