Teaching & Learning

K-6 Teaching & Learning Mission

Our mission is to cultivate a welcoming and dynamic learning environment where ALL students are encouraged to grow intellectually, interpersonally, and emotionally. By integrating evidence-based practices, differentiated instruction, and individualized support, we strive to meet the unique needs of each student. Through collaboration, mentorship, and continuous reflection, we will empower students to explore their potential, cultivate a growth mindset, and develop the skills necessary for success both inside and outside the classroom. We aim to build a foundation of resilience, critical thinking, and empathy, ensuring every student feels valued and challenged. 

K-2 (Investigations), 3-5 (Bridges in Mathematics), 6 (CPM)

Stow-Munroe Falls City School District is committed to fostering student thinking and understanding through inquiry-based learning in mathematics. Our CPM Mathematics, Investigations Mathematics, and Bridges in Mathematics programs are designed to help students actively explore mathematical ideas, developing both understanding and fluency.

These programs align with Ohio’s Learning Standards for Mathematics and incorporate the Standards for Mathematical Practices. The curriculum is rigorous, engaging, and accessible for all students, encouraging them to collaborate, investigate, and participate in problem-based learning. By focusing on hands-on experiences and critical thinking, students can connect mathematical concepts to real-world situations.

Mathematics K-2 (Investigations)

SMF uses Investigations in Number, Data, and Space to provide students with a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. This research-based curriculum focuses on problem-solving, reasoning, and real-world applications, helping students develop strong mathematical thinking skills.

Key Features of Investigations Mathematics:

• Conceptual Understanding: Encourages students to explore mathematical ideas and develop a deep understanding rather than memorizing procedures.
• Problem-Solving Focus: Engages students in hands-on activities and discussions that promote critical thinking.
• Collaborative Learning: Students work together to explain their reasoning and learn from one another.
• Multiple Strategies: Emphasizes different approaches to solving problems, helping students build flexibility in their thinking.
• Real-World Applications: Connects math to everyday experiences, making learning more meaningful.

How Parents Can Support Their Child:

• Ask About Their Thinking: Encourage your child to explain how they solved a problem. This builds confidence and reinforces learning.
• Play Math Games: Many Investigations lessons incorporate games that strengthen number sense. Playing similar games at home can reinforce skills.
• Emphasize Effort & Growth: Math learning is a process! Praise perseverance and problem-solving, not just correct answers.
• Stay Connected: Reach out to your child’s teacher with any questions or concerns about their progress.

MATHEMATICS: 3-5 (Bridges in Mathematics)

Bridges in Mathematics: A Comprehensive Math Program

Our district uses Bridges in Mathematics, a research-based curriculum designed to deepen students’ understanding of mathematical concepts while building problem-solving skills and mathematical thinking. Developed by The Math Learning Center, this program emphasizes hands-on learning, visual models, and engaging activities that help students connect mathematical ideas across grade levels. 

Key Components of Bridges in Mathematics:

• Number Corner: A skill-building program structured around the classroom calendar, featuring five distinct workouts that allow students to apply mathematical skills in diverse contexts.
• Bridges Intervention: A targeted, strengths-based instructional and assessment approach designed to support students in mastering key mathematical concepts and skills.
• Concept Quest: An extension of grade-level learning that provides additional problem-solving experiences and horizontal enrichment opportunities for all students.

Key Features of Bridges in Mathematics:

• Conceptual Understanding – Students develop a deep understanding of math concepts rather than relying on rote memorization.
• Visual Models & Manipulatives – Tools like number racks, base-ten pieces, and pattern blocks help students see and explore mathematical relationships.
• Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking – Students engage in real-world math problems, fostering reasoning skills and perseverance.
• Collaboration & Discussion – Students work together, explain their thinking, and learn from one another, reinforcing a growth mindset.
• Differentiation for All Learners – The program supports students at varying levels of understanding, ensuring all learners are challenged and supported.

How Parents Can Support at Home:

• Encourage your child to explain their math thinking and strategies.
• Use everyday activities (cooking, shopping, measuring) to reinforce math skills.
• Play math-related games that build fluency and problem-solving skills.
• Check out Bridges Family Support resources for additional activities and insights.

MATHEMATICS: 6th grade (CPM)

CPM Mathematics: A Collaborative Approach to Learning

Our district utilizes CPM (College Preparatory Mathematics) to support student learning in mathematics. CPM is a research-based curriculum designed to develop deep mathematical understanding through problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world applications.

What Makes CPM Unique?

• Collaborative Learning: Students work in teams to explore mathematical concepts, promoting critical thinking and communication skills.
• Problem-Based Approach: Lessons are structured around engaging problems that encourage students to discover and apply mathematical principles.
• Spiral Review: Concepts are revisited throughout the year to reinforce learning and support long-term retention.
• Teacher as Facilitator: Educators guide students through discussions and inquiry rather than direct instruction, fostering independent thinking.

How Can Parents Support Their Child?

• Encourage your child to explain their thinking when solving problems.
• Use the CPM Parent Guide and online resources for additional practice and explanations.
• Foster a growth mindset by reminding students that persistence leads to deeper understanding.
• Support collaboration by discussing real-world math applications at home.

READING/WRITING: K-6 (Into Reading)

The Stow-Munroe Falls City School District is committed to providing students with authentic reading experiences along with writer’s workshop, grounded in explicit instruction across all areas of literacy, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Our curriculum integrates HMH Into reading, Fundations®, and Open Court to ensure a well-rounded literacy foundation. Through a structured literacy approach, students engage in whole-group phonics and word study, small-group instruction, shared reading, and teacher read-alouds.

We differentiate instruction using multisensory phonics, word study, decodable texts, and small group reading instruction, alongside targeted comprehension strategies taught through the gradual release of responsibility model. This approach begins with teacher modeling, followed by guided student practice with feedback, allowing students to master critical comprehension skills over time.  

The Into Reading Writing Workshop focuses on the writing process and the use of mentor texts, emphasizing student ownership of their own writing.

HMH Into Reading Curriculum Overview: Our district utilizes the HMH Into Reading curriculum to provide a comprehensive and engaging literacy experience for students. This research-based program is designed to build strong reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, ensuring students develop a lifelong love of literacy.

Key Features of HMH Into Reading:

• Phonics & Foundational Skills: Systematic instruction in phonics, fluency, and word recognition to support early reading success.
• Reading Comprehension: A variety of fiction and nonfiction texts that encourage critical thinking, discussion, and deep understanding.
• Writing Development: Structured writing lessons that guide students through the writing process, from brainstorming to final drafts.
•  Vocabulary & Language: Explicit instruction in vocabulary and grammar to strengthen communication skills.
• Differentiated Instruction: Resources to support all learners, including those who need extra support or additional challenges.

How Parents Can Support at Home:

• Read with your child daily and ask questions about the story.
• Encourage writing activities such as journaling or storytelling.
• Discuss new vocabulary words and their meanings in everyday conversations.
• Use district-provided resources and online tools to reinforce learning.

Phonics/Word Study K-2 (Fundations®)

Fundations® Curriculum Summary for Parents: Our district utilizes the Fundations® curriculum as a foundational literacy program designed to support early reading and spelling skills. Developed by Wilson Language Training, Fundations® provides systematic and explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, handwriting, and spelling to help students build strong literacy skills. Fundations is a structured literacy program that follows a multisensory, research-based approach to reading and spelling. It is aligned with the Science of Reading and helps students develop essential skills for decoding (reading) and encoding (spelling) in a sequential and cumulative manner.

Key Components of Fundations® Instruction:

• Phonemic Awareness – Teaching students to recognize and manipulate sounds in spoken words.
• Phonics and Word Study – Systematic instruction in letter-sound relationships, spelling rules, and word structure.
• Fluency – Developing reading accuracy, speed, and expression.
• Handwriting – Practicing letter formation and proper pencil grip.
• Spelling – Learning spelling patterns and rules to improve writing skills.

Fundations® supports literacy success by providing:

• A structured, step-by-step approach to phonics instruction.
• Multisensory learning strategies that engage students through visuals, movement, and sound.
• Hands-on activities and interactive lessons to reinforce key skills.
• Early intervention opportunities to support struggling readers.

How Can Parents Support at Home?

• Encourage Daily Reading – Read with your child and discuss stories together.
• Practice Letter Sounds and Spelling Patterns – Reinforce phonics skills at home with games and activities.
• Use the Fundations Home Support Packets – Provided by your child’s teacher to support learning at home.
• Celebrate Progress! – Recognizing small achievements helps build confidence in reading and writing.

Fundations® is an essential part of our district’s commitment to building strong readers and writers.

Phonics/Word Study 3rd-4th (Open Court)_, 5th-6th (Into Reading)

Open Court and Into Reading Word Analysis Kit: Our district utilizes the Open Court Word Analysis (3rd-4th grade) and Into Reading (5th-6th grade) Kit to support students in building strong foundational literacy skills. This research-based program provides explicit, systematic instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, word recognition, fluency, and vocabulary development.

Through engaging activities and structured lessons, students develop the skills necessary for reading success. The program also incorporates multi-sensory learning techniques to support diverse learners, ensuring that all students have the tools they need to become confident, proficient readers.

Key components of the program include:

• Phonemic Awareness – Helping students recognize and manipulate sounds in spoken words.
• Phonics & Decoding – Teaching students how letters and sounds work together to form words.
• Word Recognition & Fluency – Supporting automatic word reading to improve reading comprehension.
• Vocabulary Development – Expanding students’ word knowledge to enhance understanding.

By using this structured approach, we aim to provide all students with a strong literacy foundation that will support their academic growth across all subject areas.

How Can Parents Support at Home?

Parents play a vital role in reinforcing literacy skills outside the classroom. Here are some ways you can help:

• Read Together Daily – Encourage your child to read aloud and discuss the story to build comprehension and confidence.
• Play with Sounds & Words – Engage in rhyming games, word puzzles, and activities that strengthen phonemic awareness.
• Practice Sight Words – Use flashcards or create fun challenges to help your child recognize high-frequency words automatically.
• Encourage Writing – Have your child write letters, stories, or journal entries to reinforce phonics and spelling skills.
• Ask Questions – While reading, ask your child to predict what will happen next or explain a new word’s meaning.
• Model a Love for Reading – Let your child see you reading and talk about what you enjoy in books.

Phonics/Word Study K-2 (Fundations)

Fundations® Curriculum Summary for Parents: Our district utilizes the Fundations® curriculum as a foundational literacy program designed to support early reading and spelling skills.

Developed by Wilson Language Training, Fundations® provides systematic and explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, handwriting, and spelling to help students build strong literacy skills.

Fundations® is a structured literacy program that follows a multisensory, research-based approach to reading and spelling. It is aligned with the Science of Reading and helps students develop essential skills for decoding (reading) and encoding (spelling) in a sequential and cumulative manner.

Key Components of Foundations Instruction:

• Phonemic Awareness – Teaching students to recognize and manipulate sounds in spoken words.
• Phonics and Word Study – Systematic instruction in letter-sound relationships, spelling rules, and word structure.
• Fluency – Developing reading accuracy, speed, and expression.
• Handwriting – Practicing letter formation and proper pencil grip.
• Spelling – Learning spelling patterns and rules to improve writing skills.

Fundations® supports literacy success by providing:

• A structured, step-by-step approach to phonics instruction.
• Multisensory learning strategies that engage students through visuals, movement, and sound.
• Hands-on activities and interactive lessons to reinforce key skills.
• Early intervention opportunities to support struggling readers.

How can parent support at home?

• Encourage Daily Reading – Read with your child and discuss stories together.
• Practice Letter Sounds and Spelling Patterns – Reinforce phonics skills at home with games and activities.
• Use the Fundations® Home Support Packets – Provided by your child’s teacher to support learning at home.
• Celebrate Progress! – Recognizing small achievements helps build confidence in reading and writing.

Fundations® is an essential part of our district’s commitment to building strong readers and writers.

SCIENCE K-6: K-3 (Scholastic Spin), 4-6 (Interactive Science)

The Stow-Munroe Falls Science Curriculum is designed to align with Ohio’s New Learning Standards for Science. Our curriculum offers a comprehensive approach, incorporating the Scholastic Spin and Interactive Science programs, which emphasize the idea that students are natural scientists and problem-solvers.

Each unit of study invites students to explore scientific concepts through an inquiry-driven and discovery-based approach. We emphasize a balanced instructional strategy that blends hands-on exploration with direct instruction, ensuring that students gain both the critical content knowledge and the skills necessary to understand and engage with the world around them.

Students are encouraged to ask questions, test hypotheses, and collaborate with their peers, teachers, and experts to deepen their understanding of science. By fostering a dynamic learning environment, we nurture curiosity, critical thinking, and the ability to approach problems with an investigative mindset.

SOCIAL STUDIES K-6: 

Civic-minded citizens understand the connections between history, geography, economics, and government, recognizing how these interrelated concepts influence decisions at local, national, and global levels. With this in mind, the Stow-Munroe Falls Social Studies Curriculum, incorporating Gallopade Social Studies and Scholastic News, is designed to develop students' knowledge while enhancing their decision-making skills, regardless of age level.

The curriculum explores the importance of timelines to understand historical events, teaches students how to evaluate sources for credible information, and emphasizes the role of communities, rules, and laws in shaping society. Students also gain an understanding of basic economic principles, learning how economic decisions affect both individuals and groups within society.

Students are encouraged to be active participants in their civic duty, whether it's in the classroom, school, community, club, or team. By fostering critical thinking and an appreciation for the interconnections of these social studies concepts, we help students develop a deeper understanding of the world and grow into informed, active citizens who contribute positively to society.

7-12 Teaching & Learning Mission

The vision of the 7-12 Teaching and Learning Department is to provide a well-rounded educational experience for all our students. Units of instruction for each course are aligned to Ohio’s Learning Standards set forth by the Department of Education and Workforce.

Daily lessons and interactions aim to be student-centered and focused on the growth and achievement of every child. Curriculum is designed to equip students to acquire knowledge and give them opportunities to apply that learning in authentic ways.

At the culmination of the 7-12 educational experience, we want our students to personify the attributes of our Portrait of a Bulldog. Our graduates will become resilient, compassionate citizens that act with integrity. Our graduates will have developed the ability to solve problems, think creatively, communicate effectively, and collaborate in a respectful way. 

We monitor a variety of data consistently throughout the year to evaluate the level of achievement and growth of our students both academically and socially-emotionally. We strive to make connections with each of our students in some way through sports, clubs, classes and events.

We encourage our parents to stay connected as well during these middle and high school years of school. We welcome questions and value the partnership of our families in helping students succeed no matter the next stage that comes after graduation.

7-12 Course of Studies

• High School Course of Studies
• 2025-2026 High School Course of Studies

Data Review and Monitoring Student Progress

Stow-Munroe Falls Schools currently use Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) tests 3 times a year to monitor student growth in the areas of math (grades 7-8), Algebra 1 (grades 8-9), Geometry (grades 9-10), Algebra 2(grades 10-11), science (grade 7), and Reading (grades 7-11).

Students who are taking honors or AP courses in their 11th grade year do not take the MAP tests.

Teams of teachers review the data when testing is complete to evaluate the growth data by class and individual students. The Student Progress report goes home within 10 days after the testing window is complete.

For more information regarding NWEA MAP testing please visit The Family Toolkit. For specific questions you can contact your child’s principal or Julie Miller at st_jmiller@smfcsd.org.

Ohio State Testing

Currently, students in grades 7-12 take various Ohio State Tests.

Please refer to the chart below which details the grade level and typical test given. A passing score on an Ohio State Test is 700.

Students who do not earn a passing or competency score are given the opportunity to retest each year. 

Please see the Department of Education and Workforce testing site for more information.

Title 1

What is Title 1?

Title I, Part A (Title I) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESEA) provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education, and to close educational achievement gaps by allocating federal funds for education programs and services. 

Title 1 Instruction at Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools

Title 1 Title I instruction is available in three of our elementary schools: Echo Hills, Indian Trail, and Riverview. Title 1 English/Language Arts (ELA) is provided at our K-4 elementary buildings. Both Title I ELA and Mathematics are provided at Lakeview Intermediate.

Notification for Parents Whose Students Attend Title 1 Schools

You have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct your child. Federal law allows you to ask for certain information about your child’s classroom teachers and requires us to give you this information in a timely manner if you ask for it.

Specifically, you have the right to ask for the following information about each of your child’s classroom teachers:

• Whether the Ohio Department of Education has licensed or qualified the teacher for the grades and subjects he or she teaches.
• Whether the Ohio Department of Education has decided that the teacher can teach in a classroom without being licensed or qualified under the state regulations because of special circumstances.
• The teacher’s college major, whether the teacher has any advanced degrees and, if so, the subject of the degrees.
• Whether any teachers’ aides or similar paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if they do, their qualifications.

If you would like to receive any of this information, please call the Human Resources Director at 330-689-5445.

Click here to view the Parent's Right To Know.

State and Federal Grant Monies

The Stow-Munroe Falls City School District applies for a variety of state and federal grants each year. These grants range from student programs to staff development. Part of the application process sometimes requires the schools to seek input from the communities of Stow and Munroe Falls.

If you would like to submit ideas, please send ideas to either the K-6 Curriculum Supervisor or the 7-12 Curriculum Supervisor at Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools, 4350 Allen Road, Stow, 44224.

Model Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)

In accordance with the PPRA, school districts are required to develop policies and procedures and to notify families on an annual basis regarding: 

• The right of parents to inspect surveys before they are administered by the school to their child 
• Efforts to protect student privacy in the event a survey is distributed to students 
• The right of parents to inspect instructional materials (excluding tests) that are part of their child’s curriculum 
• The administration of student physical examinations or screenings 
• The collection, disclosure or use of students’ personal information The right of parents to inspect any instrument used in the collection of their child’s personal information 
• Parents also have the right to opt their child out of participation in certain activities such as surveys and physical examinations and screenings.

TITLE I HANDBOOK

PARENT INVOLVEMENT PLANS

• Echo Hills Elementary School 
• Indian Trail Elementary School
• Lakeview Intermediate School
• Riverview Elementary School 

ANNUAL TITLE I PARENT/GUARDIAN MEETING

• Title I Family Meeting K-3
• Title I Family Meeting 5-6

ELA (ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS) INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

• 10 Ways to Encourage Your Child to Read
• Suggested Book Titles-Association for Library Service to Children
• Websites to Encourage Reading

MATHEMATICS INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

• Websites to Promote Mathematical Understanding
• Homework Help Infographic

Testing

Written Test Security Plan

Over the course of a school year, students participate in a variety of statewide assessments. The information in the link below outlines our district’s security guidelines for these tests and the possible consequences for students for any security violation.

• WRITTEN TEST SECURITY PLAN FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES 2019-2020

Assessment Schedule

• ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE 2019-2020

Student Practice Website

Visit the Ohio Department of Education's website is an excellent resource for students and families. It offers a helpful student practice website, where students can sign in experience the testing experience. Click HERE to go directly to the practice test.

If you have any specific assessment questions, please contact your building principal.

Educational Technology Providers

Our district's Gifted Services program, under the guidance of the Curriculum Supervisors, is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of our students. Working closely with teachers and families, our goal is to ensure that every gifted student is supported to reach their fullest potential both in and beyond the classroom. 

View the District Plan and Parent Guide for the Identification and Services for Children Who are Gifted.