GCPS Curriculum Change Approved for 2026–27: What Parents Are Asking

Garrett County’s Board of Education has approved new instructional materials for Elementary English/Language Arts (ELA) and Grades 6–8 Science, following a public review period. The new curricula are slated to roll out district-wide in the 2026–27 school year.

What was approved: Elementary ELA: Magnetic Literacy (Curriculum Associates) Middle School Science (6–8): Experience Science (Savvas)

Curriculum changes can be a big deal—so here are some fair, common questions parents and community members ask when districts make an adoption like this:

Questions to ask now (before 2026–27)

1) What problem is this solving?

Are we addressing reading gaps, consistency across schools, test scores, or something else?

2) How “scripted” is it?

Will teachers have flexibility—or will pacing guides control the classroom?

3) How will success be measured?

What data will the district share in year one and year two?

4) How does it support students with IEPs/504s and struggling learners?

What happens if a student falls behind—and what tools will be used?

5) Screen time and access:

How much is digital vs. print, and will every student have equal access?

6) Science content and transparency:

Science programs can become controversial in other states around topics like climate/energy—what edition is being used here, and how are updates/errors handled?

Transparency request many communities make:

Will GCPS publish a summary of public feedback received during the review period and explain how it influenced the decision?

This isn’t about panic—it’s about being informed early so implementation goes well for students and teachers.

If you’re a parent/teacher in Garrett County: What questions do you want answered before 2026–27?