Salem-Keizer School Board Faces Pivotal Vote: Superintendent Contract & Bold Science Curriculum Overhaul

A Decision That Could Reshape Local Education

The Salem-Keizer School Board is poised to make two critical decisions this week that will directly impact over 40,000 students – a vote on the superintendent’s contract renewal and the adoption of revolutionary new science curricula. This comes amid growing pressure from parents and educators demanding modernization in classroom instruction.

Key Developments on the Table

• Superintendent’s Future: The board will decide whether to extend Superintendent Christy Perry’s contract, whose leadership during pandemic-era schooling drew both praise and criticism.
• Science Education Revolution: Three proposed curricula packages promise hands-on STEM learning aligned with Next Generation Science Standards.
• Budget Implications: The science program adoption carries a $2.7 million price tag, raising questions about funding allocation.

Why This Matters Now

With Oregon’s science proficiency scores lagging behind national averages, the curriculum overhaul represents a potential turning point. The selected materials emphasize:

1. Real-world problem solving over rote memorization
2. Increased focus on climate science and biotechnology
3. Diversity in scientific contributions throughout history

Community members packed last week’s work session, with heated debates erupting over evolutionary biology content and the inclusion of climate change modules in middle school materials.

The Superintendent Factor

Perry’s potential contract renewal has become unexpectedly contentious. Supporters point to her stabilization of district finances, while critics highlight:

• Declining test scores in core subjects since 2020
• Ongoing teacher retention issues
• Controversial decisions regarding school resource officers

What Do You Think?

• Should school boards prioritize STEM over arts/humanities given budget constraints?
• Is it appropriate to teach climate change as settled science in grades 6-8?
• Do superintendent contracts deserve public votes or should they be administrative decisions?
• Would you support higher local taxes to fund curriculum updates like these?