Instructional Resources

"Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. The human mind is our fundamental resource." - John F. Kennedy

Muskegon Public Schools has a broad, rich, and comprehensive curriculum, the description of which is available in each building. Each year, several areas of the curriculum are studied to consider recommendations for change in the content and/or the instructional materials used. In 1997, the Michigan State Board of Education adopted the Michigan Curriculum Framework which includes standards and benchmarks for the four curriculum areas.

Muskegon Public Schools K-12 programs aligned with the Michigan Framework include Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science. In 1999-00, revised curricula and new materials were adopted by the Board of Education for Science K-8 and Language Arts 9-12. Language Arts K-8, Physical Education K-5, Art and Music K-8, and Integrated Technology K-12 were also revised, and these were adopted by the Board of Education.

During 200/01, pilot curricula were developed for K-5 math and handwriting. When completed, the new curricula and materials will be presented to the Board of Education for adoption.

Teacher Training

The major emphasis of these professional activities has been the integration of subject matter (primarily using reading and writing in science and social studies), an emphasis in mathematics and science on concept development through the use of hands-on activities, effective early literacy training, school improvement, the integration of technology into the curriculum, and conflict resolution.

A complete copy of the core curriculum and instructional program is available in all school buildings.

Questions or Comments

New courses and new information on effective teaching and learning require training for teachers. Muskegon Public Schools has taken extraordinary efforts to inform our teachers of the availability of current technology and research-based methodology, materials, and instructional practices which will increase student learning. Considering what the authorities in various fields advocate, and in combination with needs assessment data gleaned from the MEAP and MPS assessments, programs for teachers have been developed in reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, and science.

General questions or information requests regarding instruction at Muskegon Public Schools may be directed to Linda Riepma, Executive Director Secondary Education, at (231) 720-2036, or Linda Wierenga, Executive Director Elementary Education, at (231) 720-2058.