Elementary School Parents
In elementary school, students are just beginning to understand their potential. As they find themselves learning to think critcally and ask deeper questions, the A/E teacher at the individual schools is there to guide and push them. The Elementary School committee of GEARS is here to help you better understand the mind of the gifted and talented child, the challenges they may face as they grow and to know when and how to advocate for your child's education.
Qualification Matrix
Questions often arise as to the criteria used to place students in the A/E Math and Reading programs at the elementary school. The district uses a "matrix" of Iowa Test of Basic Skills and Cognative Abilities Test scores as well as teacher recommendations for placement in the A/E program. The Elementary School Matrices are posted on the District's Acceleration and Enrichment Website.
A/E Program Changes for 2009-2010 School Year
At the September GEARS meeting, Dr. Ramsey presented the findings of a Committee that spent over two years researching the status of the District 304 Elementary and Middle School A/E program by surveying students, parents and teachers in District 304 as well as researching and visiting other school districts in the Chicago suburbs. The entire presentation is available here, however, many parents are interested in the recommendations made by the Committee. With the exception of adding staff that has been postponed until the economic outlook improves, those recommendations have been, or are in the process of being implemented within the District this school year. A comprehensive list of those recommendations can be found here.