Gifted and Talented Programming at Pillager Public Schools

Gifted and Talented Dollars in the Pillager School are used for several programs. Limited funds are available and are divided between the high school and the elementary schools. The following slides report on the Elementary school portion.

Elementary Reading Program Accelerated Reader is a computer based program where students read books and then take tests on those books. Each book is worth points. Classrooms then set goals to reach their points and offer rewards such as a pizza party or another incentive.

Elementary Spelling Bee The Spelling Bee in Pillager is a part of the Lakes Area Bee which is sponsored by National Joint Powers Alliance and the Brainerd Daily Dispatch. Our students take a classroom test to qualify for the district Spelling Bee. Once students have qualified, they compete in the Pillager District spell off. The winning student then goes on to compete at the Lakes Bee and a chance to go on to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

Elementary Science Fair Our 4 th and 5 th grade students participate in a local Science Fair. This fair gives the students an opportunity to meet several of the Minnesota Science standards through a fun activity. Winners from our local Science Fair then go on to compete at the Freshwater Science Fair in Bertha-Hewitt.

Elementary Resource Library The school library offers several books for parents that deal with parenting issues. Books can be checked out through Mr. Sandin, Media Specialist. The Early Childhood Family Center area also has a lending library for parents which is funded with gifted/talented money.

Science Trunks Through our gifted funding our school has access to several learning trunks through a lending program from the Science Museum of Minnesota. These science trunks enable students to study additional information in a hands on way. Teachers use these trunks through their regular teaching time. If parents would like to be involved in this “Trunk Learning” they should contact Mrs. Bell.

Elementary Success Maker Math Success Maker Math is a computer system that allows students to move at their own pace. Each class is given computer time several times a week to enhance the student’s learning in math. (This is in addition to classroom math.)