The primary goal of STMA’s curriculum review process is to develop a guaranteed and viable curriculum. A guaranteed and viable curriculum is one in which the agreed upon essential content and skills are covered within adequate instructional time. STMA recognizes that a guaranteed and viable curriculum has a strong correlation to student achievement (Marzano, 2000).

The process implemented by STMA supports the review of curricular content, course offerings, and resource selection on a six-year cycle. The first year consists of a pre-study or needs assessment phase. Student performance is analyzed for determining existing program strengths and weaknesses. As a part of this analysis, district representatives survey all school stakeholders to hear their perspectives on curriculum. Also, a part of year one is the development of program philosophy, scope and sequence (what’s taught and when it’s taught), the declaration of program best practices, and the selection of resources. Further, a benchmarking study is conducted. A benchmarking study enables STMA to examine best practices outside the district and learn from other districts that possess quality programs Year two involves mapping the curriculum and the implementation team using the new, updated curriculum. During this second year, staff development support is given to teachers as they engage in the use of new materials and strategies. The third year is full implementation of curriculum and resources and is spent refining and problem solving so that the effectiveness of the new curriculum is ensured. Each content and program area continues to be monitored throughout the cycle.

The curriculum review process is supported by the Community Curriculum Advisory Committee (CCAC), which is a legislatively mandated advisory committee comprised largely of community members who hear curriculum reports and make recommendations regarding curricular issues to the Superintendent and School Board.  All decisions are made by a representative group of teachers from each building, department, or grade level, a representative from the CCAC, and facilitated by the Director of Curriculum. During the entire process, representatives are encouraged to gather input from their colleagues concerning the issues studied.

• Curriculum Review Process
• Curriculum Cycle

For more information, contact Dr. Ann-Marie Foucault, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, at annmarief@stma.k12.mn.us or 763-497-6524