Curriculum

Math

The district has chosen to apply a "Standards-based math ... approach to mathematics education in which the math content is presented in a problem context and includes instruction in each of the four standards (number/number systems; algebra; geometry/measurement; and data).   It might also be described as a problem solving approach to teaching math."

USD 253 has chosen the Math Trailblazers textbook series for math education in our K-4 schools.  The publisher of the series, Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company,  has a web site available for teachers and families.  There are some "Homework Help" features on the site. 

http://www.mymathtrailblazers.com

Click on Login and choose "Existing Users." 

Here is the information needed for the login:

Username:  KS_Empor_F

Password:  KS_Empor_F

Then click on the "Math Trailblazers, Second Edition" link to enter the site.

Click on the "Family" tab and choose your student's grade level to access the activities and explanations of the units near the bottom of each page.

Literacy

We are very excited about our core reading series.  It is called Imagine It! and is published by McGraw - Hill.  USD 253 students in grades K-6 use the program to develop literacy skills.  The focus is on phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.  We like to call these the "Big Five."  You may visit the SRA web site for Imagine It! to get an overview of the program.  There is even a page especially for families' "At Home" use that includes "Free Stuff!"

Imagine It! web site 

Technology

SuccessMaker - One of the computer programs in use at Walnut Elementary is SuccessMaker by Pearson Digital.  The program allows students to work at individualized levels in a variety of subjects, especially math and literacy. 

Type to Learn 3 - Third and fourth grade students learn to type using the Type to Learn 3 program from Sunburst.  Second grade students start the program after the first semester at a slower pace to prepare for third grade typing.

Blaster Network -  Math and Reading skills are reinforced with these engaging "game" format learning programs at several different levels.

Mighty Math - Students can practice Math skills with these programs within the series:  Carnival Countdown and Zoo Zillions for younger students, and Calculating Crew and Number Heroes for the upper grade levels.

Kid Pix - Creativity is the focus of this program which has a variety of applications for different subject levels, or just for fun!

Jump Start - A variety of subjects are reinforced at each grade level with this favorite.

Testing and Evaluation -

NWEA MAP testing is conducted in the computer lab 3 times a year, Fall, Winter, and Spring for all grade levels to monitor progress in literacy and math.

Kansas Assessments - Students in grades 3 and 4 take the Kansas Assessment in the spring.  Formative (practice) tests are available in the fall and winter for students to prepare for the "real" test.  The Formative tests are scheduled as each teacher chooses.