Literacy curriculum launch — Exceptional leadership

The Curriculum and Instruction Department would like to recognize Deb Crueger, Rubi Hovenden, Prisha Ward-Saylor, Guille Romo, and Kirsten Manning for their exceptional leadership throughout the elementary literacy adoption process.

Review and districtwide pilot

This work began more than a year ago when they led a committee of teachers in reviewing multiple curriculum options and narrowing the field to two finalists.

This fall, they coordinated a districtwide pilot involving a well-represented group of teachers across all six grade levels and feeder areas in the school district. The pilot included English and Dual Language classrooms, with careful attention to English Language Development (ELD) supports. Through classroom implementation, teacher feedback, and ongoing collaboration, the teacher committee ultimately recommended HMH Into Reading and Arriba la Lectura.

Preparing for implementation

Since the Board's approval of this literacy curriculum, Deb, Rubi, Prisha, Guille, and Kirsten have shifted their focus to preparing for successful implementation. Together, they have been developing curriculum maps, designing and facilitating professional learning, coordinating instructional supports, managing materials, and building systems to support schools.

This summer, they will lead three-day training sessions for teachers and principals, helping educators prepare for the launch of the new curriculum. They are also coordinating the massive effort of organizing and delivering truckloads of instructional materials to every elementary school this summer, ensuring teachers have the resources they need before students arrive in the fall.

Commitment to excellence

Known for their positivity, teamwork, unwavering commitment to supporting schools, these leaders have combined strategic planning with countless behind-the-scenes hours to make this important work possible. Their expertise, dedication, and collaborative spirit exemplify the very best of our district and have positioned our elementary schools for a strong start to the 2026–27 school year.