File: IJJ

TEXTBOOK SELECTION AND ADOPTION

The principal is encouraged through the Agawam School Committee to establish a review committee to assist in the process to determine the textbooks that best meet the curriculum guidelines of the district. The committee should include teachers who will use the texts and other staff members as found desirable. As well as School Councils to serve.

Principles that apply generally to the selection of instructional materials and library materials shall apply to textbooks. Additionally, basic textbooks and textbook support materials shall be chosen:

To advance the educational objectives of the school system and particular objectives of the course program.

To contribute toward continuity, integration, and articulation of the curriculum.

To establish a general framework for the particular course or program.

Because the instructional purposes of textbooks, as stated above, are such importance, particular care shall be taken in their selection as to content.

Although many points must be examined, the Agawam School Committee directs the staff to be mindful of the following considerations:

The needs of all learners must be provided for.

Attention should be given to gender roles depicted in the materials. The textbook and textbook support materials should lead the student and teacher beyond the textbook into a wide variety of other materials and educational experiences.

If the textbook deals with problems and issues of our times, it should present and encourage examination of varied points of view.

Because textbooks are selected for several year's use, special attention also shall be given their physical characteristics, durability, format and price.

LEGAL REFS.: 1:48; 30B:7; 71:50 03 CMR 26:05

CROSS REF.: EC, Public Complaint About the Curriculum Instructional Material

Agawam Public Schools