On March 26, 2013, Gilbert School Board Clerk Mrs. Julie Smith, requested a discussion and approval of Item 6.02 relating to a Community Curriculum Committee. Eventually, the motion was revised to approve formation of a Community Textbook and Supplemental Materials Committee. Mrs. Smith’s major concern was that, in light of materials used in Springboard and Common Core, parental and teacher input be allowed prior to adoption of certain reading materials. See the video below, where the discussion begins at 1:13:00. The essence of opinions begins at 1:34:00. Board Members Lily Tram and Jill Humphreys are in agreement that selection of textbooks and supplemental reading materials should be left in the hands of "the professionals." "There are many different values in Gilbert," stated Mrs. Humpherys. "One person’s trash is another person’s treasure." Mrs. Tram wanted to know, "Who is going to run this committee"? Board President Staci Burk suggested that Mrs. Smith would facilitate it. The Board approved the Committee 3-2.
Read moreSpringboard
Gilbert Public Schools Controversial “Springboard” Textbooks
On June 5, the GPS Governing Board is expected to discuss and adopt “proposed” math and English language arts textbooks. These books are on display for public view and comment at neighborhood elementary and junior high schools. They are also on display at the GPS Educational Complex, 140 S Gilbert Rd, from 8 am to 4 pm weekdays. The public is invited to review the books and complete an Evaluation Form.