Gifted Education
Accelerated Learning Program and Secondary Honors Program
The GPS Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) differs from the regular educational curriculum by providing breadth and depth through academic acceleration and relevant enrichment. The elementary schools use the cluster and replacement models to serve gifted students in grades K-6. These programs comply with a legislative mandate requiring schools to provide services for academically-talented and ambitious students who need challenges beyond the regular classroom setting. Testing for eligibility is done periodically throughout the school year.
The Junior High and High School Honors curriculum is designed to provide academic acceleration and enrichment for the able and ambitious student. Honors courses are offered in the following academic areas: English, laboratory science, and math. Placement in honors classes is based on qualifying scores on the Cognitive Abilities Test and teacher recommendation. Testing is conducted three times each year; see the school’s counselor for details. Advanced Placement classes are also available at high schools.
Philosophy Statement
It is the philosophy of Gilbert Public Schools that all students are provided the opportunity to develop academically and socially to the best of their abilities. The most effective education for all children is that which is commensurate with their abilities. Gifted children deviate from the norm to the extent that instruction based solely on chronological age may be ineffective.
Standards of Learning
- Superior achievement
- Self-directedness
- Responsibility
- Creative thinking and expression
- Acceptance of divergent view
- Pursuit of alternative solutions
- Commitment to inquiry
Eligibility
Referrals for ALP or Honors placement can be initiated by teachers, parents, or students. Eligibility testing requires a permission form signed by a parent or guardian to be submitted to the test administrator prior to testing. Testing is done periodically throughout the school year. See your school counselor for details.
Students who received a score in the 97th percentile or above in any one of the ability sub-tests of the state-approved tests will be served.
Students who receive a score in the 95th-96th percentile in any area may be further evaluated and placed in the program as space is available. A student who falls within this range may be considered for placement on a probationary basis.
Placement in ALP or Honors is reviewed each spring. Continued placement in the program is based on successful student performance. It is recommended that students maintain a grade of C or better to continue in the ALP/Honors sequence.
Placement in the Honors Program at the secondary levels can be arranged through the school's guidance and counseling office.
Withdrawal Procedures
Initiation of withdrawal from the elementary Accelerated Learning Program may come from the teacher or parents in the event that the student seems to no longer be benefiting from the accelerated pace and academic requirements of the ALP curriculum. A student will only be withdrawn with parent notification. Once a child has been withdrawn he or she is out of the program for the remainder of the school year. A conference or study team meeting may be held to determine how this student might best be served. That meeting may result in discontinued services, alternate ALP services, or a recommendation that the student may remain in the program.
For information about Gilbert Supporters of the Gifted, a parent booster group, please visit their website: www.gilbertgifted.org
