Gifted and Talented Programs
The main approaches to gifted education are enrichment and acceleration. An enrichment program teaches additional, deeper material, but keeps the student progressing through the curriculum at the same rate as other students. For example, after the gifted students have completed the normal work in the curriculum, an enrichment program might provide them with additional information about a subject. An acceleration program advances the student through the standard curriculum faster than normal.
Kindergarten through 5th Grade
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is a widely recognized program that provides hands-on, project-based learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. When it comes to gifted and talented students, PLTW can be an excellent platform for nurturing their potential and enhancing their skills in various ways:
Advanced Content: PLTW offers a curriculum that can be adapted to accommodate gifted students' advanced abilities. These students can delve deeper into complex concepts, explore advanced projects, and tackle more challenging problems within the PLTW framework.
Acceleration: Gifted students often learn at a faster pace than their peers. PLTW allows educators to modify the pace of instruction, enabling gifted students to complete projects more quickly and work on additional, more advanced projects.
Independent Projects: PLTW can provide a structure for gifted students to pursue independent projects related to their interests. Teachers can guide them in developing personalized projects that align with PLTW's principles, allowing them to explore topics in depth.
Interdisciplinary Exploration: Gifted students often excel in multiple areas. PLTW's interdisciplinary approach allows them to blend their talents in various STEM fields, promoting holistic learning and encouraging them to see the interconnectedness of these disciplines.
Real-World Applications: PLTW projects are designed to mirror real-world challenges. Gifted students can benefit from this by solving complex problems that require innovative thinking and creativity, which aligns well with their abilities.
Collaboration Opportunities: Gifted students can collaborate with peers who share their passion and enthusiasm for learning. PLTW's collaborative projects can help them develop teamwork skills and learn from others, even if they are advanced in understanding the material.
Research and Exploration: Gifted students often thrive when allowed to conduct in-depth research and exploration. PLTW projects can be a foundation for more advanced research endeavors beyond the standard curriculum. Incorporating PLTW into the education of gifted and talented students can be a flexible and enriching approach. It provides opportunities for these students to delve deeper into STEM subjects, cultivate their passions, and develop skills that will serve them well in their future academic and professional pursuits.
Please contact your elementary school's building administration if you are interested in more information regarding the Project Lead the Way opportunities that your child may be able to participate in.
6th through 8th Grade
The middle school uses a data system to accurately place students into appropriate levels of Language, Math courses, and appropriate interventions when necessary. Placements are based upon the following data:
WYTOPP – Wyoming Test of Proficiency and Progress (Fall, Winter, Spring)
Data Placement – Average of seven longitudinal data points (WYTOPP) creates the score we use to appropriately place students at their instructional level for success. Students who are consistently scoring at the advanced level will be considered for 'honor courses' which provides them with opportunities to earn high school credits during their 8th grade academic school year.
Please contact the administration at Lincoln Middle School if you are interested in your child participating in these opportunities or others.
High School
Students who have the prerequisite skills may start earning college credits through 'free post-secondary educational opportunities' offered through dual and concurrent enrollment courses, certification, and post secondary endorsements offered at Green River High School, Western Wyoming Community College, and funded through the Sweetwater BOCES Grant Program. Please contact the Green River High School Guidance Department for more information regarding these opportunities and others.
Updated Summer of 2024