Because students with superior cognitive ability may have abilities two or more grade levels above their same age peers, the district focuses its elementary specialized services on this group of high-needs learners.  This service, referred to as Cog ELA, is provided by a Gifted Intervention Specialist in the context of the English language arts class, a subject which allows for transdisciplinary study and for use of a variety of texts to challenge students’ thinking.  The class allows students to move at a pace and depth that differs from the general education classroom while also providing space to support the unique social-emotional needs that often come with superior cognitive ability. 

In addition to the formal gifted service listed above, gifted students may receive support for their talents and abilities as described below.   Many of the options do not require students to be identified as gifted in a specific area to participate.  **These options do not qualify as a formal gifted service per state rules.  Students in the course will NOT have the service listed or related goal on a Written Education Plan.

• Cluster Class – A cluster class is a typical grade level class in grades 1 through 5 that includes 4-10 students who are gifted in the same area.  This format is the primary means of support for all students who are gifted in reading, math, or creative thinking.  This type of grouping allows for gifted learners to have access to similar-ability peers for collaboration and facilitates differentiation in the classroom without removing students to separate learning setting. 
• Flexible Math Groups – The gifted intervention specialist will lead small flexible groups 1-2 times per week with students in grades 4 and 5 based on student need and readiness.  Groups will be formed based on pre-assessments and ongoing classroom assessments during each math unit.  Students who demonstrate prior knowledge of a lesson to be taught may be included in the related small group for an extension lesson.  Groups will change regularly based on student needs, and students may not participate in every session. (Begins 2022-2023)
• Talent Development Program – A talent development specialist will teach a weekly lesson in every classroom in grades 1 through 3.  Those lessons will focus on a specific critical or creative thinking skill and will include activities that are accessible for all students but can be extended fro students who are ready for a bigger challenge, including gifted learners. (Begins 2022-2023)
• Allied Arts Electives – These courses in art, music, band, choir, orchestra, and others are opportunities for students with talents in the visual or performing arts to pursue that passion and further develop their skills.
• Extracurricular Activities – Schools may offer after school activities, such as theatre arts, student council, book clubs, or other specialized groups.  These programs may serve as opportunities for gifted learners to explore areas of interest, try new things, connect with students who have similar interests, or develop their leadership skills.   Students should reach out to their principal or school counselor for information about opportunities.
  
  

Service Withdrawal

Elementary school students will automatically be placed in the CogELA class, if eligible.  However, parents/guardians may decline gifted services if they choose.  Families are strongly encouraged to work with the gifted intervention specialist, the building principal, and any other relevant staff to develop a plan of support for the student prior to withdrawal.  Educators may share concerns about student performance in the class; however, educators may not remove a student from gifted services without parent/guardian consent nor may they coerce a parent/guardian to do so.  Families who wish to either decline or withdraw their student from gifted services must submit a signed Gifted Service Withdrawal Form to the building principal.  The principal will notify the teacher of the service and will modify the student’s schedule in PowerSchool accordingly.  The principal will place a copy of the form in the student’s cumulative school file and provide a copy to the district’s administrator for gifted education, who will, in turn, modify EMIS reporting.   Once a student declines or withdraws from a gifted service for the year, they may not return to that service that same year.  However, the student may participate in any service for which they are eligible the next school year.