As curriculum demands increase, Florida schools seek ways to fit it all in

The big story: For years, many Florida elementary school teachers have complained that the state’s reading requirements have crowded out other important topics, social studies top among them. As lawmakers have pushed to add more lessons to the mix, such as 9/11 history and anti-communism information, the pressure has grown to find time to fit it all in. Pasco County schools this year decided to create a humanities block for the youngest grades, combining social studies and reading as often as possible. Many educators raised concerns about how to give the approach better than lip service. The district created detailed plans and offered several trainings to get everyone ready.

So far, some teachers said, it’s making a difference. “Since we’ve been integrating it into the classroom, the students have shown a light about learning, and they want to learn more,” second-grade teacher Shaunna Lubecki said.