Upper Perkiomen board opens K–5 science curriculum review; Amplify materials budgeted about $238,000

The Upper Perkiomen School District put proposed K–5 science materials out for public review at its March 28 board workshop, with the educational programs committee saying the package will remain open for 30 days.

Emily, speaking for the Educational Programs & Services committee, said the committee selected the Amplify program and discussed implementation supports including professional development. "The curriculum is out for review at this point and it'll stay out for another... 30 days," she said. The committee discussed a budget estimate of about $238,000 to cover materials and professional development, and noted that amount has been budgeted.

The committee also reviewed early intervention work and reported that about 47 students are currently registered to enter kindergarten next year. The committee flagged that kindergarten counts can fluctuate over spring and summer as families move.

During public comment, Randy asked to see the locked curriculum materials and requested that the district share the rubric used to evaluate science programs. "I hope that it doesn't become political," Randy said, asking that if DEI concerns are raised they be tied to specific examples rather than general assertions.

Board members noted that the curriculum review is ongoing and encouraged the public to attend committee meetings; one board member offered to arrange access to the locked materials for interested residents. The committee said more detailed performance data will be available after the end of the third quarter and at the April meeting.