Salida School District is pleased to announce the strategic appointments of Savanah Craft as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) and April Holdinghaus as the Curriculum TOSA (Teacher on Special Assignment). The Board of Education approved these additions at their May 13 meeting, and reflects the district's commitment to bolstering pedagogy and providing enhanced support for educators.
Savanah Craft, a Salida School District alumna, brings extensive experience in curriculum development, professional development, and teacher leadership from Denver East High School. Her expertise in secondary education and mathematics will provide valuable leadership and balance to the district's curriculum initiatives.
April Holdinghaus, an 18-year educator with 13 years in the Salida School District, will serve as Curriculum TOSA, a new position approved by the Board of Education during their March 11 meeting. A state expert in reading and dyslexia, Holdinghaus has a proven track record of developing effective MTSS systems and interventions. She is excited to work to align SSD’s curriculum, and support teachers in resources navigation and pedagogical development.
"We are thrilled to welcome Savanah and April to these critical roles," said Superintendent Dr. D. Blackburn. "Their expertise and dedication will significantly enhance our curriculum and provide invaluable support to our teachers."
These appointments are part of a broader initiative to respond to teacher feedback and improve professional development within the district. The district is also implementing a new curriculum software, "Atlas," to ensure accessible and professional curriculum publication.
"The addition of the newly established curriculum support positions is a testament to our commitment enhancing the overall educational experience for our students by listening to our staff and meeting their needs," said Board President Joe Smith. "We heard their request for additional support and we're proud to take this step towards strengthening our educational resources."
Image: April Holdinghaus pictured left, Savanah Craft pictured right.