A Message from Dr. Morton Sherman, Superintendent of Schools

Superintendent Reading Welcome to the curriculum design section of the ACPS website. We will use these pages to update you about the future of curriculum design and development within our district. Our commitment is to ensure that every student in Alexandria City Public Schools graduates equipped for success in both post-secondary education and the 21st Century world of work.

How can curriculum support student achievement? What do our students require in an effective curriculum? The second goal in the ACPS Strategic Plan states that we will: "Provide a rigorous, relevant, and internationally benchmarked education to enable all students to succeed as citizens in the global community." Such a curriculum:

  • Is appropriate for the changing needs of 21st Century society, emphasizing such competencies as creativity, higher-order reasoning, and project-based learning.
  • Presents a clear pre-K-12 vertically aligned course of studies that exceeds state standards and identifies appropriate international benchmarks and assessments.
  • Ensures that every child is challenged and engaged with responsiveness to each student's talents and interests.
  • Increases student participation in Advanced Placement, honors coursework, world languages, and advanced math and science courses.
  • Reinforces the value of community service projects and student participation in extracurricular and enrichment activities.
  • Supports a systemic commitment to helping students develop positive relationships, respect and responsibility, and self-reliance.

As you will see, we are updating you about the specific ways in which we will be achieving these curriculum goals. You'll also have an opportunity to explore the implications of curriculum design for each content and program area.

Thank you for your ongoing interest and support of this important process. Our shared commitment is to ensuring that all ACPS students achieve their potential and actively contribute to their local and global communities.