Wayzata Public Schools is undertaking significant updates to its mathematics curriculum across all grade levels, a move extensively detailed during a Board of Education work session held on Monday, April 27, 2026. The changes encompass a district-wide adoption of a new elementary math program and a comprehensive restructuring of secondary-level mathematics courses, driven by the integration of new state standards and a focus on student agency.

The impetus for these changes stems largely from the 2022 Minnesota State Math Standards. The process for developing these standards began in the 2021-2022 cycle, with final official approval coming in April 2025. This timeline necessitated a concerted effort by the district to align its curriculum accordingly while maintaining its high academic benchmarks.

The 2022 math standards were first the process began in the 21-22 cycle... these standards were not fully what we jokingly call legit until April of the 2025 calendar year.

Dana Miller, Executive Director, introduced the teaching and learning presentation, which was led by Abby Brar, Director of mathematics curriculum, standards, and strategic shifts. The elementary mathematics curriculum update, co-led by Math Instructional Coordinators Becca Ausby and Sarah Winans, outlined the full rollout of the Bridges Third Edition math curriculum. This program is slated for 100% adoption for elementary students by the 2026-2027 school year, ensuring a consistent and updated learning experience for younger students.

For elementary level, obviously we are going to a new math program... the bigger shift is with middle school and high school, where we are trying to break the longer curriculum into smaller pieces, integrate statistics early, and it provides more flexibility.

Secondary Math Sees Significant Restructuring

The most extensive revisions are planned for the secondary mathematics program. Wayzata Public Schools is restructuring its traditional, year-long courses into shorter, term-long segments. This approach aims to integrate new state requirements, particularly in statistics and data science, earlier into students' academic paths. The shift is designed to offer greater flexibility in course sequencing and allow students to explore diverse mathematical fields.

During the session, Board Member Milan Sohoni questioned how the district differentiates its standards from the state minimums set by the Minnesota Department of Education. Director Abby Brar emphasized the district's commitment to providing robust options that exceed basic requirements, fostering a personalized learning journey for students.

Our goal is that we build in that choice and agency for students, that it's truly a student choice in the third and fourth year of math.

This restructuring at the secondary level is part of a broader strategic planning effort that includes enhancing intervention and extension opportunities for students. The goal is to ensure that all students, regardless of their proficiency level, receive tailored support and challenges in their mathematical development. The district is meticulously reviewing curriculum materials and selection processes to ensure the chosen resources align with both the new state standards and Wayzata Public Schools' commitment to academic excellence.

The work session, presided over by Board Chair Sheila Prior, highlighted the Wayzata Public Schools' proactive approach to educational evolution. The board members present, including Heidi Kater, Valentina Ears, Paris Bende, Alicia Little, and Dan Janstra, were introduced at the beginning of the session, signaling broad board engagement in these critical curriculum updates.