Springfield Public Schools set for social sciences review

Springfield Public Schools (SPS) has launched a comprehensive review of social science instructional materials, bringing teachers, administrators, and community members together to ensure classrooms are supported by accurate, inclusive, and high-quality resources aligned with Oregon’s updated state standards.

This district is following its standard review process, which includes a close examination of state standards, engagement with teachers, and the community. This work helps ensure that future materials support what students are expected to learn at each grade level.

“Starting with the standards helps us focus on student learning first,” said Whitney McKinley, Director of Teaching and Learning. “It gives us a clear foundation before we look at any instructional materials.”

The State, in the fall of 2025, released the new list of state-approved instructional materials. In January, teachers attend a regional preview hosted by the Oregon Department of Education and the local ESD. From there, Springfield forms a representative adoption team that includes teachers from each school, specialists who support multilingual learners and students with disabilities, and staff with expertise in equity and inclusion. This team reviews a small number of programs in depth and evaluates how well they support students and teachers.

“Teachers are the instructional experts, so their voice is central to this process,” said Jeff Fuller, Curriculum Coordinator. “They know what works in classrooms and what students need to succeed.”

Although a smaller team conducts the in-depth review, all teachers have opportunities to provide input through shared sample materials, surveys, and building-level updates. Community members and parents will also have opportunities to review materials before a final recommendation is brought forward.

    •    October-November - standards review and scope-and-sequence development
    •    December-February - teacher review teams engage in materials review 
    •    January-March - Board and budget work session updates on the process and content area for review
    •    February-March - Community feedback & review opens
    •    March - Committee recommendation presented to the Board for consideration
    •    April - Recommendation submitted for Board approval

“This process ensures we are thoughtful, transparent, and focused on quality,” McKinley said. “Our goal is to provide students with materials that reflect diverse perspectives and support meaningful learning.”

Through this collaborative approach, Springfield Public Schools continues its long-standing commitment to providing high-quality instruction and preparing students to understand the world around them.