A recent EdSurge article highlighted that districts are “trimming the EdTech fat,” eliminating extra supplements that aren’t critically needed. It resonated because we’ve been hearing a lot of the same tips, as leaders wrestle with designing a coherent instructional system.
Many district leaders are asking: What's essential? What's noise? And in a moment where every dollar and minute counts, simplification isn't about doing less; it's about doing what matters, and doing it well.
Here's what our recent analysis is telling us: Across over 1,700 districts, we found that core math coherence across K–8 is the exception, not the rule. Only 27% of districts use the same core series across elementary and middle school. But here's the twist, supplemental materials are used more consistently across grade bands than core ones.
That tells us something important: Districts are trying to fill gaps, smooth transitions, and support teachers. But without a clear instructional vision, that layering can unintentionally add to the noise.
The key isn't just to simplify. It's to align.
So as you review materials to make those final decisions for the 2025-26 school year, ask:
- Do these resources support a consistent instructional approach across grades?
- Are we helping teachers connect the dots, or making them draw the map themselves?
- Does the mix of materials reinforce or compete with each other?
You don’t need more materials; you need the ones that clearly support your goals. That’s where a strong, shared instructional vision starts to do real work.
Your partner in education,
The CEMD Team
