LINDEN — On June 6, the Linden Board of Education adopted two new science curricula for grades 9-12. One is the Savvas curriculum, which covers biology, chemistry and physics. The other is the McGraw Hill curriculum, which covers physical science. According to Superintendent David VanderYacht, both Savvas and McGraw Hill are nationally recognized for the “quality of their learning materials and ease of use for students and teachers.”
Additionally, Julie Van Wyk, associate dean for Teaching and Learning, said Savas and McGraw-Hill “excel at providing hands-on, engaging learning experiences for all learners.”
In the winter of 2023, science teachers at Linden High School began the process that led to the board’s approval of a new science curriculum for the high school on June 6. Vanderyot said teachers worked with school administrators to “create a rigorous list of non-negotiables and nice-to-haves and have been applying those elements throughout this school year.”
In early May, the district gave Linden residents two weeks to consider curriculum choices, and materials were approved by the Linden School District Instructional Materials Committee (IMC) before the board voted unanimously, Vanderyot said.
Each year, Linden/Ferndale International Lodge No. 56 F. & AM recognizes educators from school districts throughout North County. This year, the Linden School District Lodge’s Educator of the Year Award was presented to Laura Landis, a special education teacher at Fisher Elementary School.
Landis, a National Board Certified teacher, also received a cash award of $1,500. Landis joined Linden Schools in 2015 as a special education teacher at Fisher Elementary. She has been a National Board Certified teacher for the past nine years and regularly serves as a cooperating teacher with student teachers who are pursuing their special education teaching certification. She also serves as a mentor to her peers. Landis’ efforts ensure she is always prepared to serve the needs of both students and adults.
In a presentation to the Linden School District Board on June 6, Superintendent Vanderyot praised Landis for her innovative, engaging teaching methods that are tailored to the diverse needs of students. Her professionalism extends beyond the classroom, as she is dedicated to training and supporting educators throughout the district. She has been called a “professional problem solver.”
Additionally, on June 6, the Board of Directors approved the following:
• A four-year career and technical education (CTE) plan. According to board agenda materials, this agenda item will be an annual activity and will be a “permanent four-year plan with annual adjustments based on current trends in CTE and high school course offerings.” Before the board vote, Kent Victor, the district’s CTE program director, will summarize the program.
• Resolution to prioritize local autonomy and not impose unfunded obligations. According to board agenda materials, Resolution No. 08-24 is “a notice from the Linden Board of Education to its professional associations amending the bylaws to read as follows: ‘In determining positions regarding WSSDA (Washington State School Principals Association) advocacy and lobbying, WSSDA shall oppose any policies that infringe on local autonomy of curriculum or programs and/or promote unfunded obligations. After these decisions are made, the positions voted on at the General Meeting will be applied and/or utilized.'”
• the possible amendment of the lease agreement for the Inspire Development Center;
Ashley Acton will join the Linden School District Board of Trustees in September as a student advisor. Acton, who will be in her third year, will join the board alongside Kyle Tucker. She will replace Cooper Gradon, who graduated on June 7.
