Program Structure
The EXCEL program actively seeks out and supports students who demonstrate academic needs beyond the regular curriculum.
Historically, students have been formally identified for EXCEL Math at the end of second grade. Beginning in Spring 2009, students will be identified for EXCEL Math at the end of third grade. Students are identified for EXCEL Language Arts at the end of fifth grade. EXCEL coordinators also provide enrichment opportunities for students throughout the grades.


Screening
All students in 3rd grade are screened for EXCEL math, and all students in 5th grade are screened for EXCEL language arts.
While major screenings for EXCEL are conducted in specific grades, the EXCEL committee recognizes that children grow and develop unpredictably over time. If parents or teachers feel their child may be a candidate for a more rigorous curriculum but has not been identified by the screening process, they can also refer him / her for testing.

Testing and Review
The needs of intellectually gifted and academically talented students are evaluated using a combination of standardized test data, professional evaluation, and student work. The review committee, composed of teacher representatives from each building, one administrator and the EXCEL coordinators, will review all data and make a decision on appropriate placement.

Once a student is identified as needing the challenge provided by the EXCEL program, the student will continue in the program unless it is determined through the review process that the student’s needs are better met in the regular classroom.