PCE Gifted Education News

At Prairie Crossing, we are committed to meeting the needs of all learners, including those with advanced abilities, using the Douglas County School District’s Response to Intervention (RTI) framework. This approach is designed to guide our instructional decisions and ensure each child receives the appropriate support. Through our Integrated Multi-Tiered System of Support (iMTSS), we provide a range of programming for Gifted and Talented learners. These options include, but are not limited to, differentiated or accelerated content, flexible groupings based on student ability and interest, and opportunities for independent study and projects. These learning experiences primarily take place within the regular classroom and may also involve small pull-out groups as needed.

Students who have gone through the Gifted Identification process and qualify as gifted learners will have an Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) in place. The ALP outlines the classroom differentiation tailored to the student's strengths, in both academic areas and affective needs (social-emotional growth).

While most differentiation occurs within the classroom, some students with ALPs will also have the opportunity to participate in small enrichment groups led by Mrs. Camp and/or Mrs. Giraldes. These groups are designed to support both academic and affective goals, while also helping students develop critical thinking skills, collaborate with others, and build connections with peers. These enrichment sessions are supplemental to the differentiation already happening in the classroom, offering a more personalized extension of learning.

Truth: Underachievement describes a discrepancy between a student’s performance and their actual ability. The roots of this problem differ, based on each child’s experiences. Gifted students may become bored or frustrated in an unchallenging classroom situation causing them to lose interest, learn bad study habits, or distrust the school environment. Other students may mask their abilities to try to fit in socially with their same-age peers, and still others may have a learning disability that masks their giftedness. No matter the cause, it's imperative that caring and perceptive adults help gifted learners break the cycle of underachievement in order to achieve their full potential. - National Association for Gifted Children

The DCSD Elementary Discovery Program is a center-based gifted program designed specifically for highly advanced gifted students in grades 2 through 6. This program meets the needs of students who require a level of intensity and acceleration beyond what is typically available through gifted programming at their local school.

The Discovery Program is ideal for students who demonstrate the following characteristics:

- Exceptional intellectual/cognitive ability

- Consistent advanced academic achievement and performance

- Intense curiosity and motivation to learn

- A unique ability to make connections and understand complex concepts

Application Deadline:November 13, 2024

To begin the application process, please carefully review the 2025-2026 Discovery Program Application and Process Information linked HERE.

For more information about the program, please contact us and/or visit the district’s Discovery Program page HERE.

Information Nights at the different Program sites:

Pine Lane Elementary School

Thursday, October 24th, 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm

Renaissance Magnet School

Wednesday, October 9th, 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Northridge Elementary School

Tuesday, October 1st, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Please RSVP for an in-person presentation using this link.

VIRTUAL Information session:

Monday, November 4th, 2024, 6:00-7:00pm

RSVP Link for virtual presentation

As a parent or guardian, you play an essential role in your child's education. The more involved you are, the greater their chances of success.

Figure This! is a website designed to support you in this role by offering a variety of helpful resources. Simply explore the topics that interest you to find tips and tools for working with your child. We have linked a pdf of the first four math challenges.

ALP envelopes sent home in Thurs. Folders - September 26

Parent Conferences - October 7-11

Book Fair - October 7-11

Fall Break - October 12-20

6th Grade Outdoor Ed - October 23-25

Discovery Applications due - November 13