Newsela Usage

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Resources

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of instructional resources, materials, supplies and equipment from Newsela to assist gifted-identified teachers in supporting students as they further develop critical thinking and analytical skills. The purchase will not exceed $500,000.

Why: Instructional resources to assist gifted-identified teachers in supporting students as they further develop critical thinking and analytical skills.

The selected vendors have been carefully vetted and identified to
(a) improve access to meaningful content,
(b) increase awareness of sound instructional practices,
(c) provide technological assets that promote creativity, connections, and innovation, and
(d) engage students in rigorous critical thinking and analytical skills activities.

Online licenses assist gifted-identified students further to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as the ability to read and understand complex texts.
Newsela is a sole source provider that was previously used in DCSD.

Details: The DeKalb County School District will purchase supplemental instructional resources to support the academic success of students served through the Division of Student Services in accordance to Board Policy DJE (III.D.3.g).

Instructional licenses will be provided for all gifted-certified teachers to impact gifted services for all gifted-identified students.

Financial impact: The total financial impact for SY2025-2026 is not to exceed the amount of $500,000.

GL Charge Code - Gifted Supplies- 100.1000.561000.34411.8740.9990.8010.094.0000

Contact: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services
Ms. Kristen Drake, Senior Coordinator, Division of Student Services

Effective: 01/31/26 - 01/30/27

Status: Approved by Office of Legal Affairs