The district has used an earlier edition of the HMH Into Reading curriculum for several years. While the previous version incorporated many of the same foundational instructional practices, the updated curriculum reflects the most current research and expectations around effective literacy instruction and aligns with Michigan’s standards for evidence-based reading instruction and the Science of Reading.

Thanks to the support of a grant, the district was able to make this transition in a fiscally responsible way. The grant allowed Morenci Area Schools to adopt the updated curriculum for the final two years of its original six-year curriculum contract while also adding two additional years to the purchase. This approach secures a state-approved ELA curriculum for the district for the next four years while maximizing available resources.

The updated curriculum provides teachers with a structured, coherent approach to literacy instruction while incorporating the key components of evidence-based reading instruction, including explicit and systematic instruction in foundational reading skills. The curriculum is designed to support students in developing the skills necessary to become confident, proficient readers and writers.

“We are also taking this opportunity to take a close look at Michigan’s ELA standards and how they connect to our new curriculum at each grade level. Our teachers are working together to create a clear scope and sequence that identifies when and how each standard is taught throughout the year. This process will help us build consistency from classroom to classroom and grade to grade and ensure students are building their literacy knowledge and skills year after year,” said Instructional Coach Caitlyn Ceslick.

This work also builds upon professional learning the district has already invested in. In previous years, all Morenci Elementary teachers received training in the Orton-Gillingham multisensory approach to reading instruction. Orton-Gillingham provides teachers with a structured, multisensory approach to teaching phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, and other foundational literacy skills. The training complements the district’s curriculum and provides teachers with additional strategies to respond to the diverse learning needs of students.

“Our commitment is to ensure that the instruction our students receive is grounded in research and gives teachers the tools and resources they need to support every learner,” said Superintendent Jennifer Ellis. “This curriculum update builds on the work we have already been doing rather than starting over. We have invested in teacher training, we have a strong foundation in place, and this updated curriculum allows us to continue moving forward with an evidence-based and coherent approach to literacy instruction.”

The curriculum update is part of the district’s broader commitment to continuous improvement and strengthening student outcomes. Morenci Area Schools will continue to monitor student learning data, teacher feedback, and implementation to ensure that instructional practices and resources effectively support students.

For Morenci, the goal is not simply to adopt a new program, but to create a strong, consistent literacy foundation that supports students throughout their elementary years and prepares them for continued success as readers, writers, and learners.