Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District Gifted and Talented Programs An overview presented by: Cheryl Dyer, Assistant Superintendent David Matonis, Supervisor of Special Programs January 10, 2011

Four Distinct Programs Academically Independent Classes (AI) Enrichment Classes (E) in math, language arts literacy, science, and social studies Honors level classes Advanced Placement level classes

BRRSD Academically Independent (AI) Program a gifted and talented program Grades 2 - 5

Academically Independent Program (2-5) Accelerated and enriched curricula in some subjects Math Language Arts and Reading Ability grouping for the entire day Multiple criteria used for selection Cognitive ability Performance on academic assessments Teacher input

BRRSD Enrichment “E” Program a subject specific gifted and talented program Grades 5-8

What is the “E” Program? Ability grouping in mathematics (grades 5 and 6), language arts literacy (grades 5-8), science (grades 6-8), and social studies (grades 6-8) Multiple criteria used in selection Content specific Continued participation in subsequent grades is dependent on academic performance in the class A grade of B- or higher is required

Where are the E classrooms located? E classrooms for Grades 5 and 6 are located at each of the two Intermediate Schools-Eisenhower and Hillside. E classrooms for grades 7 and 8 are at the Middle School

What are the E Placement Criteria? Multiple Assessments: Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) E LAL: Reading and Language Usage E Math: Mathematics E Science: Science General Concepts and Science Processes E Social Studies: Reading Writing Sample Teacher Input regarding grades and observable classroom characteristics such as independence, advanced articulation, and concept application.

How do E classes differ from non-E? The E classes complete the grade level curriculum content, and then extend and individualize learning through inquiry based projects. E classes promote creativity and higher level cognitive skills through creative thinking, open-endedness, group interaction, higher levels of thinking, variable pacing, articulation, and leadership opportunities.

Characteristics: E students are expected: To do all assigned homework on time. To independently manage multiple, concurrent, and long-term projects. To write multiple drafts of projects, reports, and other long-range assignments before submitting the document for final assessment. To initiate meetings with the teacher after school or before school for assistance and/or enrichment when appropriate.

Characteristics: E students are expected: To reason analytically, deductively, and inductively in order to synthesize and evaluate information and data. To have the necessary skills for independently organizing tasks to meet expectations of the course.

Review of E Process Timeline: Required Online Registration for Enrichment “E” Program Placement Consideration: Grades 6-8 January 11 through January 24, 2011 Late registration will not be considered. Administration of MAP assessments will occur during the month of March 2011. Check the website for updates.

How are students and parents notified? E placement decisions are mailed to parents/guardians as soon as the scores are in and the data is analyzed

BRRSD Advanced Placement and Honors a subject specific gifted and talented program Grades 9-12

Honors and Advanced Placement Classes (9-12) Content area specific Available in several areas: Math English World Languages Science Social Studies Business Education Art Entrance is based on academic performance in the content area Continued participation is based on academic performance in the course

Office of Special Programs David M. Matonis, Supervisor dmatonis@brrsd.k12.nj.us 908.685.2777 ext. 252 FAX: 908.231.8482 Wendy Minolfo, Diagnostic/ Instructional Assistant wminolfo@brrsd.k12.nj.us