Currently for the 2012-13 school year, there are 48 students receiving extended learning services, which is 5.1% of the student population. The ELP goal is to identify 3-5% of the student population for extended learning.
Pre-K-2: Preschool students are offered reading and/or math enrichment through various iPad applications. Grade K-2 reading students study literature from Junior Great Books and share interpretations/responses citing evidence for their thinking from the literature. Research shows that this method provides superb framework for activating curiosity, questioning, critical thinking and writing skills by engaging with the text. Math enrichment is offered where students work at their own pace monitored by the ELP teacher.
Grades 3-8: Students study literature and apply specific higher level reasoning/thinking skills to challenge their abilities from a program written for gifted readers. Math students meet daily working on enrichment challenges or accelerate at their own pace. Students test out of math & accelerate using the curriculum that best meets their need. Some students accelerate using Internet programs facilitated by the ELP teacher.
In addition to meeting accelerated individual learning needs, students in grades 6-8 meet in group situations. Activities are based on interests such as: interest area independent study, logic problem solving, critical thinking skills on challenging websites, learning strengths regarding how we think & learn. Students also discuss socio/emotional issues. Middle school students participate in state fall & national spring Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl online competitions for 5th/6th or 7th/8th grade teams.
At the high school level ELP students in grades 9-12 accelerate academics by taking higher-level classes taught by content specialists on campus, advanced placement (AP) and/or (PSEO) college coursework. Students select from extracurricular interest areas for team competitions. The HS guidance counselor keeps students updated on career learning, college choices, scholarships & test-testing. Secondary students communicate with the ELP Coordinator through ELP Edmodo website where a further scheduled meeting time may be arranged as needed.
ELP continues ongoing evaluation and changes dependent on the needs demonstrated by those identified within our student population. The ELP policy is a living document since it continually reflects change as needed.
Click here to view the ELP Handbook
(updated December 2012)