Elementary Program (pull-out once per week):  Challenge

At the elementary level, the district offers two programs for highly capable students. Challenge is a one-day-a-week “pull out” program for qualified students in grades 1-6. Students are bused from their home school to Shining Mountain Elementary, where they attend class with peers from other elementary schools. Buses return students to their home school at the end of the day.

While attending Challenge, students participate in creative problem solving through performance projects, puzzles, mind-benders and class activities. They work through a sequential math/logic program to increase math problem solving skills. They are “Challenged” to write more clearly and in greater depth, with a focus on fictional and research writing, as they study topics new to them. Topics might include ancient cultures, inventions, etc. They learn about art and artists and create their own works of art. Students learn to work and relate to other students with high abilities and stretch each other in a collaborative manner. These relationships often last many years. The goal of these activities is to “Challenge” students to think and work to their highest level.

Elementary Program (full-time):  Endeavour

Endeavour, introduced in the 2003-2004 school year, is a full-day program housed at Shining Mountain Elementary. This program is designed for students who may need more highly capable services than the once per week.  Endeavour offers the full spectrum of elementary curriculum to students in grades 3/4 and 5/6.

Junior High
Students in the 7th - 9th grade who qualify may be enrolled in honors humanities classes. The humanities-social studies and communication arts - are offered during the regular day. In the honors program, students work in an enriched curriculum covering similar topics to that of regular classes, but at a faster pace and in more depth. Challenging activities engage highly capable students in their studies and foster peer relationships with other highly able students. Junior high school students may also be eligible for higher level math courses. Placement in math courses is based on test scores and teacher recommendations. This acceleration of the math sequence can provide challenge for highly capable students and allow for upper level college preparation math coursework in high school.

High School
Students in 10th grade who qualify can enroll in honors courses which are taught in the areas of social studies and communication arts. These courses are more advanced and fast paced. Students can also continue in their accelerated math sequence. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered at the high school level. Class discussions, with highly able peers, provide thoughtful study on a variety of topics. These courses prepare students to take the AP tests. If students choose to take an AP exam, and passes it at the appropriate level, they can receive college credit. AP courses are rigorous and challenging. Offerings are available in science, math, English, history, and art.

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