When school programs are consistent and coherent, students can spiral from class to class, grade to grade, and content area to content area, applying previously gained knowledge and skills. Students can build new learning on solid, relevant foundations.

Having programs that are consistent and coherent, however, does not mean that a school should have a “one size fits all” approach to curriculum and instruction. Student learning styles are diverse, and teachers have diverse teaching styles as well. Striving for consistency and coherence in the curriculum should not curtail meeting the needs or using the talents of diverse individuals.

Always keep in mind that every child brings a unique culture to school that is more powerful than any group culture. School staff must take this into account when planning for instruction.

1. Consider specific school programs to determine if they are consistent with others and the school’s overall programs.
   
   
2. Where does support for the school’s programs reside? What would be necessary to add consistency and coherence to the programs?
   
   
3. What mechanisms should be in place to determine whether the school should support, adopt, replace, or drop a program?