Advanced Academics

This program provides resources for students who need instruction beyond current grade level standards. A mismatch between a student’s readiness and the pacing, depth and/or content of the instruction provided creates a need for intervention. A student may require intervention in one school, grade, class, year or subject, but not in another, depending on his/her environment.

Is this a Gifted and Talented Program?

The goal of Advanced Academics is not to label some children as gifted but rather identify which children have a need for specific educational material. Giftedness is not a permanent, easily defined trait. Discussions of meeting students’ instructional needs are much more beneficial than conversations about giftedness.

Is there testing involved?

The goal of any Advanced Academics testing is to gather data specific to an instructional option. We want to use multiple data points to identify readiness for challenging material. No certain test or score will label students as gifted and talented. High test scores will lead to discussions of “how can we meet this student’s needs?”

What is our focus?

Consistency
District-wide programming, PreK-12
Options at all school sites

Community Involvement
Advanced Academics steering committee
Representation from staff, parent and student groups

Classroom Support
Teacher training and materials
Co-Teaching options
Special event organization

Coordination
PreK-12 acceleration options
Total School Cluster Grouping
Continuous program improvements