This school year has been a busy one with a basic Advanced Learning Plan passed in September 2017 and a more comprehensive version in April 2018. The importance of this new plan cannot be underscored enough as this will guide the district Advanced Learning work for the next 2-3 years.
One important new element is the Advanced Learning- School Level Implementation Plan (AL-SLIP) that every MMSD school is required to have. This plan will organize how a school will implement identification and instruction for advanced learners as well as AL professional development for staff in their building. Still in draft forms, these plans will be ready for the school community to view and discuss in Fall 2018.
Also important are new identification protocols for recognizing a larger pool of students who need challenge above grade level and the use of local school and group norms to find more students from demographic groups historically underrepresented in advanced learning.
Much work is still needed to determine what advanced instruction will be available for students in multiple subjects across all grade levels as well as a model for talent development to boost the academic skills of students with academic high potential. This will be the focus of continuing advocacy.
One important new element is the Advanced Learning- School Level Implementation Plan (AL-SLIP) that every MMSD school is required to have. This plan will organize how a school will implement identification and instruction for advanced learners as well as AL professional development for staff in their building. Still in draft forms, these plans will be ready for the school community to view and discuss in Fall 2018.
Also important are new identification protocols for recognizing a larger pool of students who need challenge above grade level and the use of local school and group norms to find more students from demographic groups historically underrepresented in advanced learning.
Much work is still needed to determine what advanced instruction will be available for students in multiple subjects across all grade levels as well as a model for talent development to boost the academic skills of students with academic high potential. This will be the focus of continuing advocacy.