In 2023, Amplify Science was piloted and approved as a new curriculum for adoption unanimously by teachers, parents, and advisors who reviewed it. This curriculum update was long overdue, with Rocklin USD Elementary Science books being 20 years old and out of compliance with Next Generation Science Standards which were adopted in 2013, more than a decade ago.
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Rocklin Board Rejects New Science Books
The board’s majority voted down the approved curriculum with the only reason given being “lack of parental involvement.” When asked by a parent whether they would reconsider Amplify as their only reason was an issue with the adoption process rather than the content of the curriculum, Board President Tiffany Saathoff stated she specifically would not move forward with Amplify and wanted to look at other curriculum options.
The real reason Amplify Science was not adopted was the passing mention of a scientist being LGBTQ+ in one of the materials. In 2011 California passed the FAIR act so students can more easily see themselves in the historical figures they learn about in class.
The purpose of the act is based on a study by California Safe Schools Coalition showing that inclusion of LGBT people in instructional materials is linked to greater student safety at school for both straight and gay students and lower rates of bullying.
Judging by their actions, we believe is not something supported by Board President Tiffany Saathoff, nor Board Member Julie Hupp, nor their religious and political backers.
Board Meeting and Vote
Some highlights from the board meeting:
- 1:31:21: The board majority badly attempts to justify not adopting the curriculum
Board Member Julie Hupp says there’s “no emergency” when our elementary age children are using science books a decade out of date.
At the following meeting we had some great comments:
- 28:00: RTPA President Travis Mougeotte asks for specifics about the Science Curriculum not being adopted
A Curriculum is Adopted
After the hundreds of thousands of dollars wasted in 2023 on the Amplify Pilot, the district spent another hefty sum with another pilot program after changing participation rules in an attempt to stack their religious and political allies on the curriculum committee. Because of their obvious bias, parent interest was at an all-time high and they were unsuccessful. We now have an updated, approved the McGraw-Hill Inspire Science curriculum scheduled for use starting in the 2024-2025 school year.
Previous Curriculum Interference
In 2021 the board voted to give themselves final approval over the elective courses offered in the district. You can read more about the board’s politics deciding what kids can learn here.