School district shortens i-Ready contract over screen time, testing concerns – Spectrum News

School district shortens i-Ready contract over screen time, testing concerns  Spectrum News

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools approved the contract on the condition staff will bring additional information and data about the platform. CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Earlier this week, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education shortened its upcoming contract with the company behind i-Ready, an online program for reading and math that provides individualized instruction and tracks student progress. Some board members expressed concerns over students’ screen time, number of assessments and data privacy. The platform developed by Curriculum Associates operates in nearly 70% of school districts in North Carolina. CMS has used it for two years and touts the multipurpose functionality in a single platform. The district uses the platform to identify learning gaps or acceleration needs, deliver targeted instruction, and track student growth in reading and math.

According to chief academic performance officer Kimberly Vaught, the platform doesn’t replace teacher expertise and the data shows the number of students performing at grade level or above is increasing. “We know that technology is a force multiplier, but it’s not in replacement of an effective teacher. Rather it helps strengthen it by providing timely information and resources that help support instruction and intervention,” Vaught said. The current contract with Curriculum Associates expired June 30. The contract renewal would extend it for another year. "Curriculum Associates is proud to continue working with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools following thoughtful