Who Decides the Curriculum at Public K-12 Schools?

For the most part, the local school boards. So get off your collective ass and become part of that process.

Deciding Factors and Process

The curriculum at public K-12 schools is typically determined by a combination of federal, state, and local authorities. This process involves various stakeholders, each with their own role and influence. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key factors and actors:

State Education Departments

Each state has a department of education that sets broad educational standards and guidelines. These standards often outline what students should learn at each grade level in various subjects. These standards serve as a foundational framework for what should be taught but often allow for local adaptations to fit the specific needs of the state’s communities.

Local School Districts

Local school boards have significant authority over curriculum decisions. They can adapt state standards to fit the needs of their communities, select textbooks, and develop specific programs or courses. This level of decision-making allows for a tailored approach to education that can better serve local student populations.

Teachers and Educators

Teachers play a crucial role in implementing the curriculum. They may have input on what is taught based on their classroom experiences and student needs. This hands-on perspective is invaluable in creating a curriculum that is both relevant and effective in the classroom.

Community Input

Parents, local organizations, and community stakeholders often have opportunities to provide input on curriculum decisions, especially during school board meetings or public forums. This ensures that the curriculum reflects the values and needs of the community it serves.

Federal Guidelines

While the federal government does not dictate the curriculum, it can influence it through funding and programs. For example, federal initiatives may promote certain educational practices or subjects such as STEM education. This top-down influence can guide local and state-level curriculum decisions.

Overall, the curriculum is a collaborative effort that reflects state standards, local needs, and educational best practices. This multi-level approach ensures that the needs of diverse student populations are met while adhering to broader educational goals.

United States Context

In the US, there is no national curriculum. What is taught is generally outlined at the state level, and this is specified by the local Boards of Education. This decentralized approach allows for a wide range of educational models and philosophies to flourish within the country.

Local District Variations

The approach to curriculum in local districts can vary widely. Some districts insist on a unified curriculum, while others leave it to individual schools. Some districts even allow teachers to experiment with their own curricula. The district I am currently subbing for has an approach that is about midway between the latter two. They do not insist that all of the biology teachers teach the same exact lessons, but long-term subbing positions generally require teaching the same material and being assessed by a common final.

This decentralized model can be both a challenge and an opportunity. On one hand, it requires a robust framework for collaboration and communication among educators to ensure consistency and quality. On the other hand, it allows for greater flexibility and innovation in curriculum development.

As a sub, I found it was actually kind of fun collaborating with the other biology teachers. I mostly followed their lead for the ecology unit because biology is more of a passing interest than a passion for me, but I shared some of the NearPods I developed for the biochemistry unit. This collaborative approach enriched the teaching experience and provided a more comprehensive educational environment for students.