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Contentious Adoption of New Science Curriculum in Williamson County Schools
WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Tenn. — The Williamson County Schools (WCS) board has come under fire after opting for a new science curriculum that largely disregards the recommendations put forth by a committee of educators and the majority of teachers in the district.
“The board’s decision to overlook the recommendations from teachers and the committee is disheartening,” stated Charity Hazen, a former WCS teacher with nearly a decade of experience in the district, expressing her astonishment at the board’s actions.
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Before transitioning to a corporate role, Hazen found it shocking that the board opted for a curriculum in stark contrast to the teachers’ expertise.
In a recent vote, the board members decided seven to two in favor of adopting STEMscopes, a K-8 science curriculum that received minimal support from teachers—only about 7% of K-second grade teachers, 10% of third-fifth grade teachers, and none of the middle school educators endorsed it.
Dr. Claire Reeves, a board member and scientist, defended the decision, stating that STEMscopes demonstrated clear benefits for student success. She emphasized that the curriculum would focus on hands-on learning rather than merely preparing students for tests.
“It promotes daily exposure to science through practical materials, which is essential for young learners,” Reeves explained during the board meeting.
Nonetheless, a number of teachers have expressed concerns that the new textbook resembles an encyclopedia and does not adequately align with educational standards.
Former WCS board member K.C. Haugh also conveyed disappointment regarding the lack of middle school teacher support for the chosen curriculum, highlighting the importance of teacher feedback in the selection process.
A Tennessee law governing school districts stipulates that board members should base curriculum adoptions on committee recommendations. However, Haugh noted, “It should be a rarity to override teacher recommendations. When it happens, it undermines the collaborative nature of the process.”
Current board member Eric Welch, who has served the district for approximately 15 years, sided with the teachers’ recommendations and reported a concerning decline in morale among educators.
“At this moment, I have never seen our teachers this angry and disappointed,” Welch remarked, reflecting the discontent among faculty.
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With the board’s decision finalized, the STEMscopes curriculum is set to be implemented in WCS for the next several years, unless a parent, student, or teacher formally challenges the materials used in instruction.
While efforts were made to reach current WCS teachers for commentary, many have been directed not to engage in media discussions. Nonetheless, Welch reported receiving numerous emails from frustrated educators expressing feelings of disrespect following the decision.
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