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Meeting Date:
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5/19/2022 - 6:30 PM
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Category:
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New Business and Reports to the Board
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Type:
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Info
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Subject:
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Textbook Adoption Process
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ACPS 2025 Strategic Plan Goal:
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Goal 1: Systemic Alignment ACPS will build a culture of continuous improvement and design equitable systems for school and instructional improvement. Goal 2: Instructional Excellence ACPS will ensure that all students have access to and engagement with high-quality instruction. Goal 3: Student Accessibility and Support ACPS will ensure students have equitable access to and engagement with programs and supports that reduce barriers to learning. Goal 4: Strategic Resource Allocation ACPS will strategically provide differentiated resources and supports to schools and departments. Goal 5: Family and Community Engagement ACPS will ensure that all families and community members feel welcomed, respected, and valued.
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Funding Source or Fiscal Impact (where applicable)
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File Attachment:
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Agenda Item Summary:
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On September 17, 2020, the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) approved the proposed Science Textbook list to support the 2018 Science Standards of Learning (SOL) Instruction. All books submitted by publishers underwent two different levels of review to accurately reflect the content outlined in the 2018 Science SOL and ensure that the books reflect the rich diversity of Virginia students and communities. We are adopting Secondary Science textbooks using the VDOE-recommended texts.
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Background:
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VDOE Textbook Process
The VDOE has the authority to approve textbooks and other instructional materials used in the state. With the Board of Education’s approval, publishers submitted a Publisher’s Certification and Agreement form for each textbook being considered for approval.
The textbook review process places primary responsibility on publishers to ensure the accuracy of their textbooks. Publishers must certify that textbooks submitted for approval have been thoroughly examined and reviewed by qualified content experts for factual accuracy. The findings of the review committees, coupled with the publishers’ certification and agreement forms, form the basis of VDOE's recommendations to the Board on the approval of textbooks.
Local Textbook Process
The Alexandria City Public Schools Textbook Selection Committee (TSC) evaluates instructional components of textbooks and ancillary materials from the VDOE list of approved textbooks. The TSC consists of teachers, content and instructional specialists, administrators, and other school community members. TSC members meet and gather feedback from Professional Learning Communities (PLC) and grade-level teams.
TSC members meet to discuss their thoughts/notes, individually evaluate the top vendor/publishers using the same evaluation rubric, and make final recommendations. A formal recommendation is prepared and shared with the Superintendent and School Board. Procurement works to negotiate contracts, and once finalized, textbooks are ordered. Online access is provided to teachers, and print materials are distributed to schools and teachers. Professional Development for teachers is offered and ongoing.
Public Review of Recommended Textbooks
As part of the process, ACPS offers a public review of the recommended textbooks. Textbook samples are available in the Central Office School Board Room, Textbook Warehouse, and online. School Board members can submit anonymous comments regarding the proposed materials through an online survey.
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Recommendation:
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The Superintendent recommends that the School Board review the information within this memo.
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Approvals:
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Recommended By:
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Signed By:
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Dr. Gerald R. Mann, Jr. - Executive Director of Instructional Support
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Signed By:
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Dr. Terri H. Mozingo - Chief Academic Officer
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Signed By:
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Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr. - Superintendent
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