Darien committee reviews assessment audit, selects AIMSwebPlus screener and plans MTSS handbook appendices

The Darien curriculum committee on May 13 received details of an assessment audit and how the district will align screening and diagnostics with MTSS team processes.

District presenters said the universal screener for next year will be AIMSwebPlus; they described growth measures and diagnostic follow‑ups for students identified at risk. Staff emphasized the importance of curriculum‑based classroom measures and program‑provided checks to support teacher decision‑making in PLCs and MTSS team meetings.

The district plans to complete the ‘meat’ of an MTSS handbook over the summer and finish appendices before the school year opens. Presenters said companion family resources will be produced and a parent university launched so families can understand tiered supports, entrance and exit criteria and communication protocols.

Committee members asked when the MTSS draft would be available; staff said internal-level materials will be completed through the summer and that the board will see summarized materials at a public board meeting. Staff also noted a recent parent request from Royal Elementary for clearer MTSS explanations and said the handbook and parent sessions respond to that request.

Separately, the committee discussed device usage and artificial intelligence in classrooms. Board members said some students rely on AI‑generated answers without understanding processes; staff said the district has reduced device use in some grades, is finishing a five‑year technology plan that addresses device policy, and will integrate data‑literacy and targeted lessons into science and social studies where appropriate.