Standards Newsletter: May 20, 2026

May 20, 2026

New Resources to Support a Comprehensive System of Assessment

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) has released a suite of resources to support districts in building a comprehensive system of assessment. These tools emphasize the role of curriculum-embedded assessments in driving instructional decisions and improving student outcomes. Key resources include updated guidance in the Model Curriculum Framework, a common language document to ensure coherence across the state and an asynchronous course exploring the foundational concepts and practices of a comprehensive assessment system. Learn more and access these resources at KyStandards.org.

Revised Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) for Reading and Writing adopted into law

The revised Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) for Reading and Writing have been adopted into law! The process included revisions by Kentucky educators and community members, public input and review by the Kentucky Board of Education before undergoing final legislative review and adoption. These new standards are effective for classroom instruction in the 2026-2027 school year. Find out more about the standards and professional learning resources at KyStandards.org.

KDE Seeking Applications for the Science Systems & Coherence Collaborative

Unlock the full potential of high-quality instructional resources (HQIR) by building system coherence. This collaborative, led by the KDE and Leading Educators, helps district leaders build powerful, aligned science systems across curriculum, professional development, leadership and instruction. Strengthen your practices to ensure vibrant, high-quality science education for every student. Read more at KyStandards.org.

KDE Seeking Districts to Apply for the RISE Leadership Academy

The RISE Leadership Academy is a year-long program dedicated to strengthening science instruction by building a network of teacher leaders who use high-quality instructional resources to support three-dimensional, inquiry-based teaching. Complete the application by the end of the day, Monday, June 8. For more information and access to the application check out Kystandards.org.

Additional Supports for the KAS for Reading and Writing

Regional educational cooperatives are hosting free summer professional learning opportunities for teachers, instructional coaches and administrators on the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS)for Reading and Writing. This high-quality professional learning facilitated by program consultants Leigh Turner and Tina Withorn, will help educators synthesize the new standards with evidence-based literacy practices and high-quality instructional resources (HQIRs). For more information on registration, visit Kystandards.org. 

Learn more about the Kentucky Academic Standards and professional learning offerings

KYstandards.org houses the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS), along with key guidance and professional learning (PL) resources to support implementation. Educators can explore content‑specific tools and PL that support meaningful implementation of the KAS. District and school leaders also can access targeted resources to support adoption and implementation of high‑quality instructional resources (HQIRs).

The KYLearningHub course catalog provides further access to professional learning opportunities that support effective standards implementation as well.

Missed something in previous newsletters?

Be sure to visit the newsletter archive to catch up on valuable updates and resources. You’ll find information on the Kentucky Academic Standards and related professional learning opportunities available through KYstandards.org and the KYLearningHub, including content‑specific tools, implementation guidance and support for high‑quality instructional resources.

Please email the standards team with any questions.