Christina Pierce, Ed.D.

Hello, Alta Loma Families and Educational Partners!

On behalf of our incredible Educational Services team, we are honored to serve you and support our ten outstanding schools and programs that make Alta Loma such a special place for learning. Our District is fully committed to providing high-quality, engaging, and relevant educational experiences for all TK-8 students—ensuring they are prepared for success both now and in the future.

We take pride in fostering academic excellence while also supporting students’ social and emotional growth. Our dedicated educators work tirelessly to provide the instruction, resources, and opportunities that promote continuous learning and achievement.

Early Learning & Literacy
To give our youngest learners a strong start, we’ve expanded Transitional Kindergarten (TK) programs across all elementary schools, using the evidence-based Learning Without Tears, Get Set for School curriculum to help children build developmental and foundational skills and become kindergarten-ready. To provide more learning opportunities, the District is providing full-day kindergarten at all of our elementary sites. In efforts to support our state's students reading by 3rd grade literacy initiative, all grade K-2 teachers are implementing evidence-based Orton-Gillingham Science of Reading methodologies as pat of our structured literacy program. Additionally, all K-2 teachers provide all students the Reading Difficulties Screener (RDRS) in order to identify early on potential reading difficulties and provide students an opportunity to receive early literacy intervention and target support. Throughout our grades 3-5 classrooms, you will see Science of Reading methodologies incorporated to strengthen reading and comprehension skills. In grades 6-8 you will see all content areas focused on strengthening literacy skills and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) embedded in order to expand inclusionary practices.

Engaging & Rigorous Learning Experiences
In today’s world, students need to develop critical thinking, strengthen communication, nurture creativity and be confident with problem-solving skills. Our teachers in grades 3-8 are dedicated to providing rigorous and relevant learning experiences that foster these four areas. When visiting classrooms, you will see students consistently engaged in meaningful discussions and productive struggle, analyzing information, and applying their learning across subjects including ELA, math, social studies, science, and electives.

Comprehensive Curriculum
Our District uses standards-based instruction aligned with the California State Standards and Frameworks to ensure all students receive a high-quality and relevant education. Here’s a look at the core curriculum across subject areas:

• English Language Arts (ELA)

  • K-5: California Journeys (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) and Orton-Gillingham Science of Reading methodologies

  • 6-8: StudySync (McGraw Hill)

  • Both programs blend print and digital resources and integrate English Language Development (ELD) to support all learners.

• Mathematics

  • K-5: SAVVAS Envision Math

  • 6-8: Big Ideas Math

  • Accelerated Math (7-8): McGraw Hill Accelerated (7th grade) and Big Ideas Math Integrated I (8th grade).

  • Our teachers are actively engaging in professional learning around the new California Math Framework to enhance instruction and support student success.

• Science

  • K-8: Amplify Science (aligned with Next Generation Science Standards - NGSS)

  • Teachers receive training to implement hands-on, inquiry-based instruction across life, physical, and earth sciences.

• Social Studies

  • K-5: Studies Weekly

  • 6-8: TCI’s History Alive

  • These interactive programs make history and social sciences engaging and meaningful for students.

The District follows California Department of Education (CDE)'s timeline for curriculum adoptions. Families can access more information about our TK-8 curriculum and adoption timelines by contacting the Education Services Department.

Equity and Access In the Alta Loma School District, we are committed to equity and access for all students, ensuring additional support for English Learners, Foster Youth, Students with special Needs, and those who may need extra academic support or enrichment opportunities.

Partnering for Student Success
Alta Loma believes that strong partnerships between families, schools, and the community are key to creating a safe and supportive learning environment. Together, we are shaping lifelong learners, responsible citizens, and future leaders.

Thank you for your continued support and collaboration. We look forward to working with you to ensure Alta Loma remains a high performing District and a special place for all students. 

In Partnership, 

Christina Pierce, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services