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Academics and Curriculum

Our Instructional Vision

In every Wilkinsburg Classroom, students have access to high-quality, grade-level, standards-aligned instruction every day. Students engage in rigorous thinking, grapple with complex ideas and authentic problems, both individually and collectively, while rooted in a strong foundation of essential skills. These learning experiences stretch both their thinking and possibilities while affirming them in safe, supportive environments where they are known, valued, and challenged. Students develop the knowledge, confidence, and agency to shape their future and contribute to a changing world. 

Key Dates for Families

  • September Open House: Thursday, September 24, 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. 
  • November Family Conferences: Friday, November 6
  • January Family Conferences: Monday, January 25

Elementary Education

Standards-Aligned Instruction

The Pennsylvania Academic Standards define what students should know and be able to do at each grade level and in every subject. At Wilkinsburg School District, we use these standards to guide instruction, ensuring every student has access to rigorous, grade-level learning. Standards-aligned instruction helps provide consistency for success in future learning, college, careers, and life. Explore the standards below to learn more about your child's learning expectations. 

Curricular Resources

In all of our classrooms, we use high-quality, research-based instructional materials that are aligned to the Pennsylvania Academic Standards. These resources provide engaging, rigorous learning experiences that help ensure every student develops the knowledge and skills needed for success. 

  • English Language Arts (ELA): Amplify CKLA (K-5) & Amplify ELA (6)
    • Amplify's literacy programs build strong reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills through rich texts, explicit foundational skills instruction, and knowledge-building units that deepen students' understanding of the world. 
  • Mathematics: Savvas enVision Mathematics
    • Savvas provides standards-aligned mathematics instruction that develops conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning, real-world applications, and meaningful mathematical discourse. During the 2026-2027 school year, all Mathematics classrooms are piloting high-quality, standards-aligned mathematics instructional materials to select a new district-wide curriculum that best supports student learning. 
  • Science: OpenSciEd & ECA Science
    • Our science curriculum engages students in investigating real-world phenomena through inquiry-based learning. Students ask questions, conduct investigations, analyze evidence, and apply scientific thinking while building a deep understanding of life, physical, Earth, and environmental sciences. 
  • Social Studies: Studies Weekly
    • Studies Weekly brings history, civics, geography, and economics to life through engaging, standards-aligned resources that encourage students to explore current events, analyze multiple perspectives, and become informed, responsible citizens. 

Enriching Specials and Encouraging Opportunities for all Students

Students enjoy a well-rounded educational experience that extends beyond the core academic subjects. Our enrichment and specials programs foster creativity, physical wellness, cultural awareness, and a lifelong love of learning while helping students discover and develop their unique talents. 

  • Art: Students express their creativity while exploring a variety of artistic techniques, media, and cultural traditions. 
  • Music: Students build musical knowledge and performance skills through singing, movement, and music appreciation. Beginning in third grade, students also have the opportunity to learn and play a musical instrument. 
  • World Language (Spanish): Students develop foundational Spanish language skills while exploring Hispanic cultures and traditions. 
  • Physical Education: Students build healthy habits, teamwork, sportsmanship, and lifelong fitness through engaging physical activities. 
  • Library: Students cultivate a love of reading, strengthen research and digital literacy skills, and develop the habits of lifelong learners through regular library experiences. 

Measuring Student Progress

We use a balanced system of assessments to monitor student learning, celebrate growth, and identify areas where additional support or enrichment is needed. By combining classroom, district, and state assessments, we ensure every student is making progress toward grade-level expectations. 

  • Classroom & Curriculum-Based Assessments: Ongoing assessments embedded with daily instruction and our curriculum that help teachers monitor understanding, provide timely feedback, and adjust instruction to meet students' needs. 
  • NWEA MAP: Administered three times throughout the year to measure academic growth and guide instructional planning in reading and mathematics. 
  • mCLASS Assessment: Used in the primary grades to monitor foundational literacy skills and identify students who may benefit from additional reading support. 
  • Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA): State assessments that measure student proficiency in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science according to the Pennsylvania Academic Standards. 

Keeping Families Informed

We believe families are essential partners in every child's education. Throughout the school year, families receive regular updates on their child's academic progress and growth. 

  • Quarterly Report Cards: Issued at the end of each marking period (nine weeks) to communicate student achievement and academic performance. 
  • Quarterly Midpoint Progress Reports: Shared midway through each marking period to provide families with an update on student progress and identify opportunities for support before report cards are issued.