Advanced Learning Program

Program Description

District 31 believes in providing differentiated & rigorous learning experiences for all students. The purpose of the Advanced Learning Program (ALP) is to provide students who demonstrate readiness an enriched and accelerated learning program in the areas of English language arts and math. The program is available in grades 4-8. 

Fourth grade enrichment for math and ELA will use flexible grouping to leverage a talent development approach. This means that readiness will be based on math and ELA unit pre-assessments to provide more students the opportunity to participate in enrichment throughout the school year. In grades 5 - 8, we look at three indicators of readiness: an achievement score (NWEA MAP), an aptitude score (CogAT), and teacher feedback (SIGS2 inventory). Click here to view the placement matrices. 

What is meant by enrichment?

Enrichment engages students in learning content from the current grade-level standards but goes deeper into the grade-level curriculum to promote critical thinking. Emphasis is on moving through curriculum horizontally. For an example in ELA, click here. For an example in math, click here.

What is meant by acceleration?

Acceleration engages students in learning content from next grade-level standards and typically moves at a faster pace. Emphasis is on moving through curriculum vertically.

Program Courses

Program Timeline

Inquiry Process

• In fourth grade, readiness for enrichment is determined by unit pre-assessments to allow for flexible grouping and an increased exposure to critical thinking for each unit.
• Starting in 5th grade, a matrix is used to determine student readiness for placement in ALP full year courses. Click here to view the placement matrices. 
• If a student doesn’t demonstrate readiness for a full year ALP course based on the matrix data points, parents and teachers have the option to open an inquiry.
• An inquiry is an individualized problem solving process intended to look at the whole child in order to determine best-fit placement.
• This process may include additional assessment and information gathering.
• Inquiry Form: email Meg Knapik, Asst. Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction at mknapik@district31.net for more information 

ALP Inquiry Calendar

The calendar in the table below outlines the periods of time when inquiries into ALP placement occur. This is applicable to both teacher and parent inquiries. The purpose for having a calendar is as follows:

• Set windows allow for a timely and efficient process
• Establishing a cutoff time during the school year preserves curricular pacing
• Exceptions may be made for students who are new to the district

Additional Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Glossary of Terms

Parent Web Resources

• The Center for the Gifted

• Center for Talent Development

• Davidson Institute

• Illinois Association for Gifted Children

• National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)

• NEAG Center for Gifted and Talented Development

• Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted