R277-469-6. Criteria for Recommendation of Instructional Materials Following Mid-Party Evaluation of Core Curriculum

  (1) The Instructional Materials Commission and the Board, in reviewing whether to recommend instructional materials, may consider whether the instructional materials:

  (a) are consistent with Core requirements;

  (b) are mapped and aligned to the Core and state adopted assessments if planned for use as primary materials;

  (c) are high quality, research-based, and proven to be effective in supporting student learning;

  (d) provide an objective and balanced viewpoint on issues;

  (e) include enrichment and extension possibilities;

  (f) are appropriate to varying levels of learning;

  (g) are accurate and factual;

  (h) are arranged chronologically or systematically, or both;

  (i) reflect the pluralistic character and culture of the American people and provide accurate representation of diverse ethnic groups;

  (j) are free from sexual, ethnic, age, gender or disability bias and stereotyping; and

  (k) are of acceptable technical quality.

  (2) A publisher, when submitting new primary material to be evaluated by the Superintendent, shall submit an electronic version of that material in NIMAS file format to NIMAC for use in conversion into Braille, large print, and other formats for students with print disabilities.

  (3) The Superintendent may require an LEA to provide a report of instructional materials purchased by the LEA or a school in the previous five years.

  (4) The Superintendent may initiate a formal or informal audit of instructional materials purchased to determine purchase or use of instructional materials consistent with the law or this rule.