Board approves new world-language materials; ASL discussion to continue

The Davis School District board approved primary instructional materials for world-language courses following a vendor-review process led by district curriculum staff and classroom teachers.

Mr. TJ Strain told trustees the adoption process began in January and included teacher, parent and student input. Teachers and parent volunteers evaluated six products down to four finalists; the vendor referenced in the presentation as "this is school" received the highest composite score and offered the most favorable pricing. The district-wide license cost was presented as roughly $4,500 per school per year for the selected product.

Board members asked about American Sign Language (ASL) offerings: staff reported seven schools currently offer ASL but vendor pricing for ASL modules was high (presenters cited a per-school subscription figure that raised cost concerns). Mr. Strain said the district may pursue teacher-created curriculum in the near term or add an ASL subscription in a future year depending on vendor availability and price.

Trustees approved the instructional materials as presented. Administration said it will provide professional development and training for teachers on the new materials before the school year and will continue conversations with ASL teachers about options for this school year and next.