St. James Public Schools Families,
First, as we prepare to observe Veterans Day tomorrow, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all veterans. Your service, sacrifice, bravery, and dedication do not go unnoticed. We are grateful to you and your families for all you have given to our country.
Second, we’re excited to share an update on the selection of a new mathematics curriculum for St. James Public Schools. Both Northside Elementary and the Middle-Senior High School last completed a comprehensive mathematics curriculum adoption approximately 10 years ago. We plan to purchase the new curriculum in spring 2027 and begin using it in September 2027. The curriculum will support mathematics instruction for the next eight school years, through June 2035, with ongoing review of student learning and instructional needs. Our district’s regular curriculum review cycle will guide the next adoption process.
Background:
Since fall 2025, the Math Steering Committee has met regularly to research mathematics resources that best meet the needs of our students, staff, and community. The committee reviewed evaluations using the EdReports Gateways and attended vendor showcases hosted by the South Central Service Cooperative in Mankato. Members explored four potential resources for grades K-5 and three for Grades 6-12. After reviewing research and sample materials, the committee narrowed the options in May to two finalists for each grade span.
Northside Elementary Math Finalists (Grades K–5)
Bridges in Mathematics
i-Ready Classroom Mathematics
MSHS Math Finalists (Grades 6-12)
Kendahl Hunt - IM360
CPM Mathematics
Both finalists for each grade span offer strong resources to support mathematics teaching and learning. Our next step is to determine which best meets the needs of St. James students and staff.
Representatives from the publishers presented to staff on October 7 and October 21, and staff provided feedback on the resources. We now invite families and community members to review the finalists and share their perspectives. Your feedback will help inform the committee's recommendation.
Northside Elementary (K-5) Finalists Informational Links
K-5 Finalist: Bridges Mathematics
K-5 Finalist: i-Ready Classroom Mathematics
Northside Families:
Join us for Northside Math Night on Tuesday, November 17th from 6:00-7:30pm! Representatives from both K-5 mathematics curriculum finalists will be available to share materials, answer questions, and help families explore each resource. We encourage you to attend and share your feedback as we work together to select the best fit for our students.
MSHS (6-12) Finalists Informational Links
6-12 Finalist: IM360
6-12 Finalist: CPM Mathematics
Google Form – Feedback Opportunity:
Once you’ve reviewed these materials, we’d like to invite you to take a quick survey to share your feedback. Here is the link to that survey.
Northside Elementary Parent/Community Member Feedback
St. James MSHS Parent/Community Member Feedback
The deadline for survey submission is Wednesday, November 23rd at 12:00pm. The Math Steering Committee will at its next scheduled meeting following the submission deadline, review the parent/community feedback.
Thank you for your time and insights.
Liam Dawson, Superintendent; Mike Fugazzi, MSHS Principal; Keri Murphy, Northside Principal; Greg Burman, MSHS Dean of Students; Kimberly Shideler, 1st Grade Teacher; Emilie Kaus, 2nd Grade Teacher; Kristine Friesen, 3rd Grade Teacher; Jena Kauffmann, 5th Grade Teacher; Ethan Hildebrandt, MS Math Teacher; Kendahl Rogers, HS Math Teacher; Tori Heidt, Special Education