Wake School Board Discusses Updated Curriculum Procurement Framework
The framework consists of a six-phase process designed to ensure compliance with state standards while addressing students' needs.
Holly Springs, NC, Ja. 21, 2025 — Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) officials have presented a new curriculum procurement framework to improve equity, quality, and collaboration across the district. As discussed during a recent work session, the framework is a work in progress, with opportunities for ongoing feedback and adjustments.
A Framework for Curriculum Development
The framework comprises a six-phase process to ensure compliance with state standards while addressing students' diverse needs. These phases include strategic planning, community engagement, resource evaluation, and continuous review and refinement.
“This is not about handing over a final product or simply outlining how we got there,” officials emphasized during the session. “Instead, [stakeholders are] partners, they’re involved at every stage, from planning and needs assessment to decision making, implementation, and continuous review.”
Roadshows, surveys, and expanded committees are tools used to increase transparency and inclusivity. Officials highlighted the importance of early engagement, saying, “We want to make sure families and parents are aware that these opportunities are available and that we provide multiple opportunities and communicate them clearly and systemically.”
Learning from the Past
The framework builds on lessons from previous curriculum efforts, including formal evaluations by the district's data, research, and accountability office. Officials noted past challenges, including low participation in family engagement efforts. They stressed the importance of improvement, stating, “We’ve got work to do in that regard.”
Research from other large districts and feedback from Wake County educators helped shape the new process. “Our superintendent's teacher advisory council provided direct feedback for us,” an official noted, adding that educators called for "curricula that support different student needs and learning styles" and "ongoing training, support, and resources to effectively use that curricula."
Strengths and Challenges
The framework includes several enhancements:
A long-term 10-year budget plan to address the costs of both acquiring and sustaining curriculum resources.
Vendor engagement through formal presentations and evaluations.
Expanded committees with representation across all district areas and grade levels.
Officials also acknowledged challenges. Reflecting on past efforts to engage families, they stated, “Practically speaking, they were not always well attended.” They aim to address this with better communication and multiple opportunities for participation.
Next Steps
The curriculum procurement framework remains a work in progress, with revisions expected as feedback is collected. Officials described the process as a collaborative effort, saying, “We want to involve more and more educators in the process from the beginning” and “increase essential partner engagement” to ensure all voices are heard.
Community Involvement Encouraged
Wake County residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming surveys and roadshows to help shape the process. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to creating a curriculum that reflects the diverse needs of students and aligns with state and local standards.