Tri-County School Corporation, Wolcott, Indiana
Katherine Pearson, High Ability Coordinator
District Mission Statement for High Ability Program
Students with high abilities require differentiated services, curriculum, and instruction in order to reach their highest level of personal educational achievement. Through the Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships Framework, Tri-County will provide those experiences to develop their gifts into talents. A developmentally appropriate education for high ability learners requires an environment that encourages and supports continuous cognitive, social, and emotional development.
District Definition of High Ability Student
A high ability student is one who performs at, or shows the potential for performing at an outstanding level of accomplishment in core areas when compared to other students of the same age, experience, or environment, and is characterized by exceptional gifts, talents, and motivation.
Multifaceted Student Assessment Plan
Primary Grades K-2
- Aptitude Test – Otis Lennon School Aptitude Test (Grades K and 2)
- Achievement Test – NWEA Math and NWEA Reading
Intermediate Grades 3-6
- Aptitude Test – Otis Lennon School Aptitude Test (Grade 5)
- Achievement Test – NWEA Math and NWEA Reading
Jr/Sr High School
- Achievement Test – NWEA Math and NWEA Reading (Grades 7-10)
Curriculum and Instructional Strategies Plan
Primary Grades K-2
- Differentiation is encouraged in all grade levels
- Flexible Grouping and Small Group Instruction
- Leveled Reading
- RTI and IEP
Intermediate Grades 3-6
- Differentiation is encouraged in all grade levels
- Leveled Reading
- Flexible Grouping and Small Group Instruction
- RTI and IEP
Junior High School Grades 7 and 8
- Differentiation is encouraged in all grade levels
- Pre-Algebra – 7th Grade
- Algebra I – 8th Grade
Senior High School Grades 9-12
- Differentiation is encouraged in all grade levels
- Accelerated English Class – Grades 9 and 10
- Honors Classes – History, Physics, IU Dual Enrollment English, English 11, Chemistry 2, Algebra II and Geometry
- AP – Calculus and Biology
After School / Summer Enrichment Grades K-12
- Battle of the Books (Elementary Grades 4-6, Junior High / High School)
- Spell Bowl (Grades 4-6)
- Math Bowl Competition (Grade 5 and 6)
Counseling Plan
The counselors are available to meet with students and parents to discuss the specific needs of their high ability children.
Systemic Program Assessment Plan
The Broad-Based Planning Committee is made up of the following members:
- Coordinator
- Elementary Principals
- High School Principals
- Teachers
- Parent
- School Board Member
- Community Member
- Counselors
- Students
Professional Development Plan
Conferences
Every year teachers attend the IAG/DOE Annual Conference held in Indianapolis. This is an opportunity to meet with leaders in the field of high ability. The coordinator keeps teachers informed of other conferences geared toward the education of high ability students and sends out information.
Professional Development Workshops
Professors from Purdue University have visited our school and presented workshops on differentiation and cluster grouping.