2190 - Highly Capable Programs

In order to develop the special abilities of each student, the district will offer a highly capable program which provides kindergarten through twelfth grade students who are selected for the program with access to basic education program that accelerates learning and enhances instruction. The framework for such programs will encompass, but not be limited to, the following objectives:

A.              Expansion of academic attainments and intellectual skills;

B.              Stimulation of intellectual curiosity, independence and responsibility;

C.              Development of a positive attitude toward self and others; and

D.              Development of originality and creativity.

The board will annually approve the district’s highly capable plan including: the number of students the district expects to serve by grade level; the district’s plan to identify students; a description of the highly capable program goals; a description of the services the program will offer; an instructional program description; a description of ongoing professional development for highly capable program and general education staff; program evaluation; a fiscal report; and assurances that the district is legally compliant.

The superintendent will establish procedures consistent with state guidelines for referral, assessment and selection of children of demonstrated achievement or potential ability in terms of general intellectual ability, academic aptitude and creative or productive thinking. These include prioritizing equitable identification of low-income students and student of non-dominant cultures; use of multiple objective criteria and multiple pathways for identification; use of local norms, unless more restrictive than national norms; use of subjective measures only to support identification; and use of screening and assessment in the student’s native language (if available) or nonverbal assessment.

Legal References:

RCW 28A.185.030  Programs – Authority of local school District – Selection of students

WAC 392-170 Special services program – Highly capable students

Management Resources:

Policy and Legal News, August 2018

Policy and Legal News, September 2013 Highly Capable Program WAC overhauled

Policy News, April 2008   Highly Capable Programs

Adoption Date: May 16, 2005

Revised: August 05, 2014; November 9, 2018, August 17, 2022