Highly Capable Review Committee Meeting Notes
February 27, 2014
Program Services Models
· We are at the point that we are done exploring big ideas surrounding program models
· Establishing a program start model to fit the needs of the populous
· Details within program models will develop over time
· Assessment of the HC program models will allow for adjustment and to see “what is working”
Parent information meetings will take place first part of March
· Letters will be sent out to parents of HC students with meeting dates and times
· Two informative parent meetings will be held on the same day, one afternoon and one in the evening
Voiced concern on figuring out what services will be available for students that opt out
· Expressed need for procedure in place when students appear to no longer qualify for HC
· Suggestion to retest students that appear to no longer meet HC criteria
Being equipped with the tools and training for a successful HC program
· Teacher training in place for differentiated learning
· Ready -made tools and teaching supplies available
· Rich ILP portfolios that follow the child through his/her educational journey
Criteria Discussion
“If we have a set criteria…”
· How many students will qualify
· How many parents will agree to their child attending
· Students will be rank ordered to fill the top positions
· Extra students will receive a quality ILP
· Need some means of managing student to teacher ratios
· ILP’s will be rich with work samples, test scores and other multiple measures
If HC student chooses not to attend self -contained program, then teachers are equipped with the tools and supports for the child to remain in homeroom
Group concerns are expressed
o Refusing students access into self -contained program due to limited available space
o Social ramifications because of rejection
o Social struggles for HC identified student that just wants to be with his/her typical friends
o Upset parents because of limited space and learning options
o Accelerated learning opportunities to be made available for the top percent that do not qualify for HC
o HC students need to have to be with peers of same mind
Considerations, Services and Implementation
· Glen reviews how Mercer Island measures test scores, compiles information
· Multi-disciplinary committee will look art additional measurements of success
· Possible use the Hope Scale which is a rating scale done by teachers looking at kids globally (performance and creative thinking beyond academics)
· Consideration for using the Renzulli rating scale
· Consider use of the CogAt screener for round one in the fall
· Second round of screening for those that passed round one
· Offer a heightened more comprehensive program with continuity, more deliberative and connective
Where we are at and where we need to be as a committee
· We need to agree upon an initial start program
· Deadline to present to the school board approaching quickly