The proposed textbooks, used by students in transitional kindergarten through 12th grade include TK–8 math to high school history, psychology, ethnic and language studies. Image by Hermann Traub from Pixabaycmyk

SACRAMENTO AREA, CA (MPG) - Through Dec. 17, San Juan Unified School District asks parents and community members to provide feedback on textbook choices that the district's adoption committees will soon make that will be used for the next seven years.

The proposed textbooks, used by students in transitional kindergarten through 12th grade include TK–8 math to high school history, psychology, ethnic and language studies.  

To review the proposed textbooks, visit SanJuan.edu/curriculum. Find materials being considered, tips for how to review, feedback forms and other resources. To review physical books, schedule an in-person appointment at Choices Charter School by emailing [email protected].  

While selection committees of teachers and community members review rubrics, hear publisher presentations, narrow options and try materials in pilot classrooms, public review is a final piece to the selection process. Recommendations move to the district Curriculum and Standards advisory committee and ultimately to the district’s Board of Education.

In early November, district staff gave an update to the district’s public Curriculum and Standards advisory committee, sharing the large teacher interest specifically in math adoptions and excitement in selecting which history and language texts to review. Staff hope that more families and community members match that excitement and provide input.  

"Whether you join us in person or review online, your feedback is important," states the district's Sept. 29 announcement. It helps guide final decisions.

Participation is growing but is still small. While selection committee applications rose from 32 last cycle to 92 this year, only 22 public reviews had been submitted by early November. While up from 12 last year, it's still a small response in a district of nearly 40,000 students. 

Why take the time? Because these materials are part of your child's learning experience. Research consistently shows that student achievement improves when families engage collaboratively in their children's education, even in acts such as reviewing curriculum.

Strong home–school partnerships support stronger outcomes. When you review materials, whether as a parent, grandparent, mentor or neighbor, you're telling a child, "I'm part of your learning team." 

Reviewers don't need to be experts or to read the whole book. Pick and compare one or two aspects or sections of each text. Ask: does this help my child learn and stay engaged? Does it help them practice and master standards? Could I see myself supporting learning at home using these materials? Give specific feedback.

Set 30 to 40 minutes to review a course that matters to your family and help shape a better learning experience for all.  

Patsy McGavock is a Curriculum, Standards & Programs Advisory Committee member in San Juan Unified School District, supporting family and community engagement.