Board adopts new math curricula: Amplify/Desmos for K–5, Middle School Math for grades 6–8

The Stockton Unified School District board approved a two-part math adoption that will change K–8 instructional materials across the district.

Staff described a multi-phase pilot of state-adopted math programs. For K–5 the district considered two finalists (Amplify/Desmos and Thinking Math); pilot teacher feedback produced mixed but generally positive consensus for both vendors. After steering-committee deliberations staff recommended Amplify/Desmos for elementary adoption. For grades 6–8 the district recommended MidSchool Math following pilot results that showed clearer teacher preference.

Trustees pressed staff on implementation details: one trustee noted the aggregate multi-year price would exceed $5 million and asked how two-and-a-half days of vendor training in the contract would translate into the ongoing multi-layered coaching the district expects. District staff replied that vendor-provided initial training is only the start; a comprehensive professional-development schedule (including summer and in-year sessions, demonstration lessons, and coaching) will be developed and shared with the board. Staff committed to provide a PD calendar and to ensure multilingual learner supports and intervention materials are aligned.

Both adoption items passed on roll call votes. Staff told the board they will finalize the PD schedule and continue to coordinate with dual-language and special-education teams to ensure a smooth transition between elementary and middle school curricula.