The District 31 Gifted/Enrichment Program is supported by “best practice” research that recommends a combination of in-depth courses of study, pullout activities, and separate classes. Student identification and participation in the program activities are based on an assessment of acquired skills and concepts using a specific matrix, which includes subjective and objective information. In addition, teachers are encouraged to differentiate instruction and incorporate enrichment projects in daily activities in order to meet the needs of all learners.
The program consists of the following activities:
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Primary Math Enrichment – is a pull-out activity for an identified math group in grades 1 and 2 who meet once weekly for 40-50 minutes for enrichment units.
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Young Scholars – is a pull-out activity for identified students in grades 3-5 and includes a Science/Social Studies/Literature strand in fall, Destination Imagination in winter and Math enrichment in the spring. Selected students meet for 50 minutes three or four times each week.
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Future Problem Solvers – is a program for students in grades 6-8 who meet for 80 minutes 2 times each week. Students participate in creative thinking skills activities in preparation for the Future Problem Solving Competition.
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6th Grade Advanced Math/7th Grade Algebra and 8th Grade Geometry – is a three-year sequence for students who meet the testing criteria aligned with the District 225 honors math program. The class meets daily.
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8th Grade Algebra – is the regular high school algebra program that is taught daily.
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Integrated Language Arts Workshop – is a two-year sequence for students who meet the testing criteria in reading and writing. The class meets daily.
Program identification and selection criteria may include:
- A screening test
- A problem solving test
- A checklist of teacher observations
- InView CSI (cognitive skills index) scores
- MAP test scores in math, reading and language usage
- Teacher recommendation
Participating students are rarely removed from the program and each year students are assessed for continued participation. In addition, students are encouraged to participate in local, state, and national programs, contests, and competitions to ensure that we offer a well rounded program.
The Gifted Program matrix is currently being reviewed -- an update will be posted in the coming weeks. (1/22/10)
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