Curriculum
Curriculum
Portland Public Schools takes pride in preparing our students for college and career readiness. The faculty, staff, and administration are committed to a collaborative approach that encourages and creates a learning environment to engage, motivate, and prepare students. Instructional best practices and curriculum choices are developed through research, experience, and innovation.
The curriculum implemented is vertically designed to meet the educational needs of all students, horizontally aligned to maintain consistency, and our teachers deliver high-quality instruction to engage the learners in the process fully. In addition, all curriculum materials have been aligned to the Common Core or Michigan Department of Education Academic Standards.
Specific courses offered by Portland Public Schools, specified by each building, can be found on the District Course Catalog. Thank you for allowing Portland Public Schools to participate in your students’ educational journey.
Contact our Curriculum Directors
Emily McAlpine (PreK - 5)
Director of Elementary Education
Phone: (517) 647-2991 or (517) 647-2989
Email: emcalpine@portlandk12.org
Leanna Davis (6 - 13)
Director of Secondary Education
Director of Secondary Education
Phone: (517) 647-2985
Email: ldavis@portlandk12.org
PPS Curriculum Overview
Elementary
Our DK through fifth-grade elementary children learn important skills and knowledge through direct instruction from their teachers, opportunities for problem-solving, and independent mastery. Instructional technology is used to engage students in critical thinking, research using approved resources, and communication of their ideas.
Developmental Kindergarten is where children begin to develop a relationship with learning and, through play, develop early knowledge about the world. Children focus on skills needed for reading, expanding their vocabularies, learning about numbers and solving math problems, and hands-on learning in social studies and science. They also continue developing their social and emotional skills.
The kindergarten classroom stimulates children's curiosity to learn more about the world around them. It's the job of the teacher to help children become comfortable working in a classroom setting and to introduce some basic literacy and math-related skills.
Mathematics: DK–5 students learn mathematics through Bridges in Mathematics, an inquiry-based, student-centered curriculum from The Math Learning Center. Bridges develops mathematical reasoning through problem-solving, discussion, representation, exploration, and the use of visual models and manipulatives. The curriculum is designed to create an inclusive and equitable learning community in which all students are supported in making sense of mathematics.
Bridges Mathematics — Curriculum Website
View the link to review Bridges Mathematics by EdReports in 2024
Pacing Guides: Grade-level pacing guides provide an overview of the mathematical content and learning progression throughout the school year.
- K–2 Bridges Mathematics Pacing Guide
- Grade 3 Bridges Mathematics Pacing Guide
- Grade 4 Bridges Mathematics Pacing Guide
- Grade 5 Bridges Mathematics Pacing Guide
Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA): Beginning in Kindergarten, Portland Public Schools uses Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) as its core literacy curriculum. CKLA is a comprehensive K–5 literacy program grounded in the Science of Reading and designed to develop both the skills necessary for learning to read and the knowledge and language necessary for understanding what is read.
CKLA intentionally combines foundational skills instruction with knowledge building. In Kindergarten through Grade 2, students experience two complementary strands: the Skills Strand and the Knowledge Strand. The Skills Strand provides explicit, systematic instruction in phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, spelling, handwriting, grammar, and writing. At the same time, the Knowledge Strand builds vocabulary, background knowledge, listening comprehension, and language through rich read-alouds and content-focused texts and discussions.
This approach reflects the research represented in Scarborough's Reading Rope, which illustrates how skilled reading develops through the interaction of word recognition and language comprehension. CKLA intentionally develops both areas, recognizing that students need strong foundational reading skills as well as the vocabulary, language, and background knowledge necessary to comprehend increasingly complex text.
In Grades 3–5, the Skills and Knowledge strands become increasingly integrated within grade-level units. Students engage with complex literary and informational texts while continuing to develop vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing, speaking and listening, language, and content knowledge. Students increasingly use literacy as a tool for learning across subjects, exploring history, science, literature, culture, and other areas of knowledge.
Knowledge Building Across Grades
A defining feature of CKLA is its intentional, cumulative approach to knowledge building. Students encounter connected topics and concepts across grade levels, allowing vocabulary and background knowledge to grow over time. This accumulated knowledge supports comprehension and gives students increasingly rich material from which to read, write, discuss, reason, and make connections.
Highlights of the CKLA Program:
- Science of Reading: Explicit and systematic foundational skills instruction is combined with language comprehension and knowledge building.
- Scarborough's Reading Rope: CKLA develops both word recognition and language comprehension as interconnected components of skilled reading.
- Foundational Skills: K–2 students receive systematic instruction in phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, spelling, handwriting, and related skills.
- Knowledge Building: Students develop broad and connected knowledge through literature, science, history, social studies, and other content-rich topics.
- Vocabulary and Language: Students encounter rich academic vocabulary within meaningful contexts and content.
- Reading and Writing: Reading, writing, speaking, listening, vocabulary, and language are intentionally connected.
- Coherent K–5 Sequence: Skills and knowledge build from grade to grade, creating a connected literacy experience across elementary school.
- Access to Grade-Level Content: Students have opportunities to engage with rich, grade-level texts and content while receiving the instruction and support necessary to develop as readers and writers.
Michigan Tier 1 Recognition
Amplify CKLA, 3rd Edition (2025), was ranked #1 by the Michigan Department of Education's Committee for Literacy Achievement on the state's Tier 1 Early Literacy Materials and Series list.
Michigan's review process considered The Reading League Curriculum Evaluation Guidelines, EdReports 2.0 Review Criteria, and ESSA Tiers of Evidence. This state-level recognition provides additional evidence supporting the quality and alignment of the curriculum with current literacy research and Michigan's expectations for high-quality early literacy materials.
Oakwood Elementary
Early Childhood
Developmental Kindergarten
The Developmental Kindergarten (DK) curriculum focuses on providing a nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment for children to enhance their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills.
Literacy: Developmental Kindergarten provides a rich, language-filled environment where children build the foundational skills they need to become successful readers, writers, speakers, and listeners. Our literacy instruction uses Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA), 2nd Edition, a research-based curriculum grounded in the Science of Reading.
Amplify CKLA is designed to provide developmentally appropriate literacy experiences while building the knowledge, vocabulary, oral language, and early literacy skills that support future reading success. Instruction combines foundational skills with rich experiences with literature, informational text, discussion, and content knowledge.
Developmental Kindergarten students are developing the early literacy skills that will support reading and writing in the years ahead. Through Amplify CKLA and engaging classroom experiences, students have opportunities to develop:
- Letter recognition and knowledge of letters and their sounds.
- Phonological and phonemic awareness, including listening for and working with sounds in spoken language.
- Early phonics skills that connect sounds to letters.
- Print knowledge and early writing skills through letter formation, drawing, labeling, and emerging writing.
- Vocabulary and oral language through meaningful conversations, read-alouds, and classroom experiences.
- Listening comprehension through rich fiction and nonfiction texts.
- Background knowledge in areas such as science, social studies, literature, and the arts.
- Storytelling and comprehension skills as children listen to, retell, discuss, and respond to stories.
- Rhyming and sound-play skills through songs, rhymes, games, and other playful language activities.
Children may engage in activities such as storytelling, rhyming games, letter recognition and formation, sound and word play, interactive read-alouds, and other hands-on literacy experiences. These activities provide children with meaningful opportunities to practice emerging skills while developing confidence and enjoyment as readers and learners.
Language and Knowledge Work Together
Strong literacy development begins with more than learning letters and sounds. Children also need opportunities to develop vocabulary, background knowledge, listening comprehension, and the ability to express their ideas.
Amplify CKLA intentionally brings these elements together. Students encounter rich content and texts while developing the language and early literacy skills necessary to understand and communicate about what they are learning. This content-rich approach helps children build knowledge over time, providing important foundations for later reading comprehension.
Learning Through Developmentally Appropriate Experiences
DK students learn best when literacy is active, engaging, and connected to their experiences. Literacy learning is woven throughout the school day through whole-group instruction, small-group learning, read-alouds, conversations, songs, movement, classroom routines, purposeful play, and opportunities to explore and practice.
Learn More About Amplify CKLA
Amplify CKLA 2nd Edition – Program Overview
Mathematics: Developmental Kindergarten students build early mathematical understanding through hands-on experiences, purposeful play, exploration, and mathematical conversation. Students develop number sense through counting, number recognition, one-to-one correspondence, comparing quantities, and understanding numbers and their relationships. They explore sorting, classifying, patterns, shapes, measurement, and simple problem-solving. Manipulatives, visual representations, and real-world experiences help students make sense of mathematical ideas and begin to explain their thinking.
Fine and gross motor skills development: DK engages in activities to improve their fine motor skills, such as drawing, coloring, cutting, and writing their names. Gross motor skills are enhanced through activities like running, jumping, climbing, and playing with balls.
Social and emotional development: DK learns important social and emotional skills, such as taking turns, sharing, cooperating, and resolving conflicts. They engage in group activities to promote teamwork, communication, and empathy.
Science and nature exploration: Children may be introduced to basic science concepts through hands-on experiments and observations. They might explore topics like plants, animals, weather, and the environment.
Art and creativity: Students are encouraged to express their creativity through various art activities such as drawing, painting, sculpting, and crafts. These activities help develop their imagination, fine motor skills, and self-expression.
Play and socialization: Play-based learning is an essential component of Young Fives programs. Children engage in free play and structured playtime, allowing them to develop their social skills, imagination, problem-solving abilities, and self-regulation.
The STEM curriculum is divided into the following areas: Forces and Interactions; Animals, Plants, and Their Environment; Weather and Climate. These STEM projects facilitate children’s language development. These increase vocabulary and conversations, which can help children develop language and general knowledge of a subject at the same time. Classic STEM activities, as well as various collaborative tech tools, encourage students to work together as they innovate and think critically when working on projects.
Technology: Basic computer skills and digital literacy may be introduced, including typing, using educational software or websites, and practicing safe and responsible online behavior.
Kindergarten
Literacy: Kindergarten students begin formal literacy instruction through CKLA's two-strand approach: Skills and Knowledge. Students receive explicit instruction in phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, handwriting, spelling, and early writing while simultaneously building vocabulary, oral language, comprehension, and background knowledge through rich read-alouds and content-based learning.
Students use decodable readers to practice newly learned sound-spelling patterns and engage in discussion, reading, writing, and other responses to the content and texts they encounter.
A curriculum map shows an overview of the units our students will be working through throughout the year.
Mathematics: Kindergarten students develop foundational mathematical understanding through counting and cardinality, numbers and operations, algebraic thinking, measurement and data, and geometry. Students learn to read, write, represent, and compare numbers and quantities and develop an understanding of addition and subtraction within 10. They explore patterns, classify and represent data, describe and compare measurable attributes, and identify, analyze, and create two- and three-dimensional shapes. Students use manipulatives, visual models, discussion, and problem-solving to develop mathematical reasoning and communicate their thinking.
Science: Exploring the natural world through hands-on activities, experiments, and observations. Topics may include plants, animals, weather, seasons, and basic scientific principles.
Social Studies: Learning about the community, family, basic geography, cultural diversity, and important historical figures or events in an age-appropriate manner.
Art and Creativity: Encouraging self-expression through various art forms such as drawing, painting, sculpting, and crafts. This fosters creativity, fine motor skills, and visual perception.
Music and Movement: Engaging in singing, dancing, playing simple musical instruments, and rhythmic activities to develop coordination, rhythm, and music appreciation.
Physical Education: Participating in games, exercises, and activities that promote physical development, coordination, gross motor skills, and an understanding of basic health and fitness concepts.
Social and Emotional Development: Promoting social skills, cooperation, sharing, empathy, and conflict resolution. This includes fostering emotional regulation, self-awareness, and building positive relationships with peers and teachers.
Personal and Social Responsibility: Encouraging good manners, personal hygiene, independence, and responsibility for personal belongings and classroom materials.
Play and Free Exploration: Allowing ample time for unstructured play, which supports imagination, problem-solving, social interaction, and the development of cognitive and motor skills.
The STEM curriculum for Kindergarten is divided into five general areas: Forces and Interactions; Animals, Plants, and Their Environment; Weather and Climate; Engineering Design; and Coding. Kindergarten students learn how to explain and predict interactions between objects within systems, how energy is transferred and conserved, how organisms live, grow, and respond to their environments, and how the earth’s processes and human activities affect each other. Kindergarten students also learn how to find a simple problem and a solution, and how to improve upon that solution. Kindergarten students are introduced to coding and how computer science is a foundational skill for all students.
Technology: Basic computer skills and digital literacy may be introduced, including typing, using educational software or websites, and practicing safe and responsible online behavior.
1st Grade
Literacy: First Grade students continue developing strong foundational reading skills while expanding vocabulary, background knowledge, comprehension, writing, and oral language. Students build increasing automaticity with phonics patterns, read decodable texts, and apply their developing skills through reading and writing.
The Knowledge Strand provides students with rich opportunities to learn about literature, science, history, geography, and other content while developing the vocabulary and background knowledge that support reading comprehension.
A curriculum map shows an overview of the units our students will be working through throughout the year.
Mathematics: First Grade mathematics builds on foundational skills developed in Kindergarten and focuses on developing students’ number sense, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Students deepen their understanding of addition and subtraction, place value, counting, and relationships between numbers. They use a variety of strategies to solve problems, identify and extend patterns, work with measurement and data, and develop an understanding of two- and three-dimensional shapes and their attributes. Students are encouraged to explain their thinking, make connections, and use representations to communicate mathematical ideas.
Science: Introduction to the scientific method: Making observations, asking questions, and conducting simple experiments. Earth and space: Studying the solar system, seasons, weather, and basic concepts about the Earth. Life science: Exploring plants, animals, habitats, and the human body. Physical science: Basic concepts of matter, energy, and forces.
Social Studies: Community and citizenship: Learning about the roles and responsibilities of individuals in a community. Geography: Basic understanding of maps, continents, and simple geographic features. History: Exploring key historical figures, events, and holidays. Culture and diversity: Celebrating and appreciating different cultures and traditions.
Art: Engaging in creative activities such as drawing, painting, and crafts.
Music: Singing, playing simple instruments, and basic music appreciation.
Physical Education: Developing motor skills, coordination, and participating in age-appropriate physical activities and games.
The STEM curriculum is divided into five general areas: Air and Weather; Plants and Animals; Waves, Light, and Sound; Engineering Design; and Coding. Students will learn what the universe is and what the Earth’s place in it is, patterns within the moon-Earth-Sun system, how organisms' external structures help them survive, grow, and meet their needs, and how individuals of the same species have different characteristics. Students will learn how to explain the structures, properties, and interactions of matter, how waves transfer energy, and how to predict the interactions between objects. Students will also learn how to find a simple problem and a solution, and how to improve upon that solution. Students will be introduced to coding and how computer science is a foundational skill for all students.
Technology: Basic computer skills and digital literacy may be introduced, including typing, using educational software/websites, and practicing safe and responsible online behavior.
2nd Grade
Literacy: Second Grade students continue to strengthen decoding, fluency, spelling, grammar, writing, vocabulary, and comprehension while developing increasingly sophisticated background knowledge. Students read increasingly complex texts and apply foundational skills with greater independence.
Knowledge Domains connect literature, history, science, geography, and culture, providing students with a broad base of knowledge that supports comprehension, meaningful writing, discussion, and critical thinking.
A curriculum map shows an overview of the units our students will be working through throughout the year.
Mathematics: Second Grade students extend their understanding of place value, addition, and subtraction and develop increasingly efficient strategies for solving problems. Students work with numbers to 1,000, use place value to compare and represent numbers, and apply properties and strategies to addition and subtraction. They begin developing the foundations of multiplication through equal groups and repeated reasoning. Students also explore measurement, time, money, data, patterns, geometry, and fractions as they partition shapes into equal parts. Mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, discussion, and representation are emphasized throughout the year.
Science: Second-grade science introduces students to various scientific concepts. They explore topics such as plants and animals, weather and seasons, the human body, properties of matter, basic forces and motion, and the environment. They engage in hands-on activities, experiments, and observations.
Social Studies: In social studies, second graders learn about their community, their country, and the world around them. They study basic geography, map reading skills, community roles, historical figures, holidays and traditions, basic economics, and the importance of citizenship.
Health and Physical Education: Students learn about healthy habits, nutrition, personal hygiene, and safety. They also participate in physical activities to develop their motor skills, coordination, and teamwork.
Arts: Second graders engage in various forms of artistic expression, including visual arts (drawing, painting, sculpting), music (singing, playing simple instruments), and sometimes drama or dance. They learn about different artists, styles, and cultural influences.
The STEM curriculum for second grade is divided into the following areas: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems, Structure and Properties of Matter, Processes that shape the Earth, Engineering Design, and Coding. Students learn how organisms interact with their environment and the effects of these interactions, how and why the Earth is constantly changing, what the universe is and the Earth’s place in it, and how one can explain the structure, properties, and interactions of matter. Students will also learn how to find a simple problem and a solution, and how to improve upon that solution. Students will be introduced to coding and how computer science is a foundational skill for all students.
Technology: Basic computer skills and digital literacy may be introduced, including typing, using educational software or websites, and practicing safe and responsible online behavior.
Westwood Elementary
3rd Grade
Literacy: Third Grade students increasingly use reading as a tool for learning independently. CKLA integrates reading, writing, speaking, and listening, vocabulary, language, and knowledge through increasingly complex literary and informational texts.
Students strengthen comprehension by analyzing characters, themes, main ideas, ideas and information, and author choices. They learn to use evidence from texts to support their thinking and write for a variety of purposes. Foundational skills continue to be supported as needed while students develop greater fluency, independence, and stamina.
A curriculum map shows an overview of the units our students will be working through throughout the year.
3rd Grade Integrated Strands (Knowledge and Skills)
Mathematics: Third Grade students develop fluency and deeper understanding with multiplication and division while continuing to apply place value and the four operations to solve increasingly complex problems. Students develop an understanding of fractions as numbers and explore equivalence, comparison, and representation. They apply mathematical reasoning to problems involving multiplication, division, measurement, data, geometry, and patterns. Students use models, equations, visual representations, and mathematical language to explain their thinking and make connections among mathematical concepts.
Science: Common science topics include the study of plants, animals, ecosystems, matter, energy, forces, and motion, and the scientific method. Students conduct simple experiments, make observations, and learn to ask questions and form hypotheses.
Social Studies: Third graders explore various aspects of social studies, including communities, geography, history, government, and cultures. They learn about different types of communities, map reading, the founding of the United States, famous historical figures, and basic civic responsibilities.
Health and Physical Education: This subject focuses on promoting healthy habits, physical fitness, nutrition, personal hygiene, and safety. Students engage in physical activities, games, and exercises to develop motor skills and learn about the importance of staying active.
Arts: Art classes may cover a range of creative activities, including drawing, painting, sculpting, and crafts.
Music: Explore music, learn to sing songs, play musical instruments, and understand basic musical concepts.
The STEM curriculum for third grade focuses on these areas: Forces, Interactions, and Motion; Inheritance and Variations of Traits; Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems; Weather and Climate; Engineering Design; and Coding. Students will learn how to explain and predict interactions between objects within systems, how the characteristics of one generation are passed to the next, and how individuals of the same species and even siblings have different characteristics. Students will learn how and why organisms interact with their environment, what the effects of these interactions are, how the characteristics of one generation are passed to the next, and how individuals of the same species and even siblings can have different characteristics. Students will also learn how and why the Earth is constantly changing and how the Earth’s processes and human activities affect each other. Students will be introduced to coding and how computer science is a foundational skill for all students.
Technology: Basic computer skills and digital literacy may be introduced, including typing, using educational software or websites, and practicing safe and responsible online behavior.
4th Grade
Literacy: Fourth Grade students deepen their ability to read closely, analyze complex texts, build knowledge, and communicate ideas through writing and discussion. Students engage with literature, informational text, poetry, historical content, science, and research-based topics.
Reading and writing become increasingly integrated as students use evidence, vocabulary, text structures, and content knowledge to explain, analyze, compare, and defend ideas. Students develop greater independence as readers, writers, researchers, and communicators.
A curriculum map shows an overview of the units our students will be working through throughout the year.
Fourth Grade Integrated Strands
Mathematics: Fourth Grade students extend their understanding of multi-digit whole numbers and develop fluency with multi-digit addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Students deepen their understanding of fractions by exploring equivalence, comparison, and operations with fractions and make connections between fractions and decimals. They solve problems involving measurement, data, geometry, and patterns and learn to analyze relationships using mathematical rules. Students classify and analyze two-dimensional figures based on their attributes and explore angles, lines, symmetry, and measurement conversions.
Science: Fourth-grade science often covers topics such as life science, physical science, and earth science. Students may learn about ecosystems, the human body, matter and energy, forces and motion, rocks and minerals, weather, and the solar system. Hands-on experiments and observations are commonly used to reinforce scientific concepts.
Social Studies: Fourth graders explore various aspects of social studies, including history, geography, civics, and economics. They may learn about their local community, state history, early American history, and important historical events. They also study maps, continents, countries, cultures, and basic economic concepts.
Health and Physical Education: Students learn about the importance of physical fitness, nutrition, personal hygiene, and making healthy choices. They participate in physical activities, games, and sports to develop their motor skills and teamwork abilities.
Arts: Fourth graders often have opportunities to engage in visual arts, music, and possibly drama. They explore different art techniques, learn about famous artists and musicians, and have opportunities for creative expression.
Music: Explore music, learn to sing songs, play musical instruments, and understand basic musical concepts.
The STEM Curriculum: Divided into general areas: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems; Structure and Properties of Matter; Processes that shape the Earth; Engineering Design; and Coding. Students will learn how organisms interact with their environment and the effects of these interactions, how and why the Earth is constantly changing, what the universe is and the Earth’s place in it, and how one can explain the structure, properties, and interactions of matter. Students will also learn how to find a simple problem and a solution, and how to improve upon that solution. Students will be introduced to coding and how computer science is a foundational skill for all students.
Technology: Students may have access to computers, tablets, or other digital devices to develop their digital literacy skills. They learn how to use various software applications.
5th Grade
Literacy: Fifth Grade students apply increasingly sophisticated reading, writing, language, and research skills as they engage with complex literary and informational texts. Students analyze themes, ideas, historical events, scientific concepts, and author choices while using evidence to support their thinking.
Writing experiences include narrative, informational, opinion, and research-based writing. Students continue to build vocabulary and content knowledge while developing the independence, critical thinking, and communication skills needed for the transition to secondary literacy.
A curriculum map shows an overview of the units our students will be working through throughout the year.
Mathematics: Fifth Grade students apply and extend their understanding of whole numbers, decimals, fractions, measurement, geometry, and data. Students use the four operations to solve problems involving whole numbers and decimals and develop increasingly sophisticated strategies for adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions. They explore patterns, relationships, and algebraic thinking and use coordinate planes to represent and interpret mathematical relationships. Students solve problems involving measurement, volume, data, and probability while continuing to develop mathematical reasoning, precision, and the ability to communicate and justify their thinking.
Science: Fifth-grade science introduces students to various scientific disciplines. They may study topics such as life science (including ecosystems, plants, and animals), physical science (including matter, energy, and forces), and earth science (including weather, climate, and geological processes). They engage in hands-on experiments and develop scientific inquiry skills.
Social Studies: Fifth-grade social studies often includes a study of American history, with a focus on topics such as early colonization, the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the growth of the United States. Students also explore geography, including map reading and the study of different regions. They may learn about government and civics, including the Constitution and the branches of government.
Health and Physical Education: In fifth grade, students learn about health and wellness, including nutrition, exercise, personal hygiene, and emotional well-being. They also participate in physical education classes, which focus on developing physical fitness, coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Arts: Fifth graders often have opportunities to explore various forms of visual arts, such as drawing, painting, and sculpture.
Music: Students engage in various activities, including singing, playing instruments, and learning about musical theory. Drama and theater may be included as well.
The STEM curriculum for fifth grade is divided into four general areas: Structure and Properties of Matter; Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems; Earth and Space Systems; Engineering Design; and Coding. Students will learn how one can explain the structure, properties, and interactions of matter, how energy is transferred and conserved, how organisms live, grow, respond to their environment, and reproduce, and how and why organisms interact with their environment; and what the effects of these interactions are. Students will learn what the universe is, and what is Earth’s place in it, how and why Earth is constantly changing, and how Earth’s processes and human activities affect each other. Students will also be introduced to coding and how computer science is a foundational skill for all students.
Technology: Students may have access to computers, tablets, or other digital devices to develop their digital literacy skills. They learn how to use various software applications.
Portland Middle School
In order to provide the best possible education to Portland’s students, while preparing them for the future years of education, the curriculum has been aligned through the work of pacing guides. Pacing guides are a way to clearly communicate the “itinerary” for our courses and the students’ learning.
It is also imperative to note that the 6th Grade students and faculty follow a specific plan that is designed to increase their success during this transition year from elementary to middle school.
Please review the documents linked below, as needed, to be well-informed regarding your student’s course pacing and content.
English Department
Middle school English uses the Amplify ELA curriculum to engage students in rigorous, grade-level reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking. Through carefully designed units centered on rich literary and informational texts, students analyze complex ideas, build strong evidence-based arguments, and develop their academic vocabulary. Instruction emphasizes close reading, collaborative discussion, and purposeful writing, helping students think deeply about texts while strengthening their communication skills. Amplify’s structured yet engaging approach supports all learners in developing the literacy skills necessary for high school success and lifelong learning.
Math Department
Middle school math focuses on building a strong mathematical foundation through critical thinking, problem-solving, logical reasoning, mathematical modeling, and numerical fluency. Students are encouraged to apply their learning to real-life situations and collaborate to solve problems, preparing them for success in higher-level mathematics and everyday applications.
The middle school math department utilizes EdGems, a standards-aligned curriculum that supports conceptual understanding, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving. In addition to the pacing guides below, EdGems provides unit support, content standards, benchmark alignment, and other instructional resources.
Science Department
Science at the middle school level provides students with a hands-on and inquiry-based approach to exploring and understanding the natural world. Middle school science also encourages scientific literacy, promoting skills such as gathering and evaluating information, conducting research, and communicating scientific ideas effectively. By fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the natural world, it prepares students for further scientific exploration. The Science Department uses the Amplify Curriculum.
Pg. 4 - 5 and 14 - 15
Pg. 6 - 7 and 16 - 17
Pg. 8 - 9 and 18 - 19
Social Studies Department
Social studies at the middle school level provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the world, its history, cultures, geography, and societal structures. Students gain a deeper understanding of their place in the world and the historical, geographical, and societal factors that shape our collective past, present, and future. The Curriculum utilized in the social studies department is TCI.
Electives
Electives at the middle school level offer students a chance to explore their interests, develop new skills, and broaden their educational experiences beyond the core curriculum. Electives enhance the overall educational experience, allowing students to tailor their learning journey to their unique interests and strengths.
Portland High School
The high school is committed to following the graduation requirements outlined by the Michigan Merit Curriculum Graduation Requirements, established by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). Specific courses offered by Portland Public Schools, specified by each building, can be found on the District Course Catalog webpage.
In order to provide the best possible education to our students, while meeting the above-mentioned requirements, we have aligned our curriculum through the work of pacing guides. Pacing guides are a way to clearly communicate the “itinerary” for our courses and the students’ learning. Please review the documents linked below, as needed, to be well-informed regarding your student’s course pacing and content.
- English Department
- Math Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- Foreign Language Department
- Electives
English Department
The English department plays a crucial role in equipping students with essential communication and critical thinking skills, nurturing their appreciation for literature and language, and empowering them to become articulate, well-rounded individuals capable of expressing themselves effectively in both academic and real-world contexts.
Math Department
High school mathematics uses the Big Ideas Math (see the 9–12 tab for course-specific EdReports information) curriculum to provide a rigorous, standards-aligned program that develops deep conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and advanced problem-solving skills. Through coherent units and real-world applications, students explore Algebra, Geometry, and higher-level mathematics while strengthening their ability to reason, model situations, and communicate mathematical thinking. The curriculum emphasizes making connections across mathematical concepts, justifying solutions with evidence, and applying learning to authentic contexts. Big Ideas Math prepares students for college, careers, and informed citizenship by building the analytical skills and mathematical confidence needed for success beyond high school.
Science Department
The science department strengthens and fosters scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and scientific literacy. By developing a solid scientific knowledge and skills foundation, students may pursue further studies in science-related fields, make informed decisions, and contribute to a society that increasingly relies on scientific advancements and understanding.
Social Studies Department
The social studies department fosters critical thinking, global awareness, and civic engagement. By developing these skills and competencies, students are able to understand and engage with complex issues facing the world today and become informed and active participants in their communities and societies. The curriculum utilized in the social studies department is TCI.
Foreign Language Department
The foreign language department cultivates an enriching and immersive language learning experience that promotes linguistic proficiency, cultural competence, and cognitive development. By learning language skills and cultural knowledge, they are prepared to navigate a diverse and interconnected world, fostering empathy, appreciation for diversity, and effective communication across cultures.
Electives
Electives are a valuable opportunity to explore interests, develop new skills, and personalize an educational experience. By offering a diverse range of subjects and experiences, electives contribute to a well-rounded education, fostering creativity, personal growth, and a sense of fulfillment. These courses empower students to pursue their passions, discover their strengths, and prepare for their future academic and professional journeys.
Health Education Advisory Board
Portland Public Schools (PPS) Health Education Advisory Board (HEAB) has been established to create a sexual health education program that is abstinence-based, works with partners and community members, and is routinely updated. Below you will find more information about our program. If you have any questions, please contact Leanna Davis, Director of Secondary Education, at ldavis@portlandk12.org or by calling (517) 647-4161.
Future meetings will be updated when set in the announcement below:
Coming Soon