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Purpose
Under
representation of minority students exists in the
gifted program in Rapides Parish. In order to
address this disproportionality in the gifted
program, the
Enrichment Academy was created.
History
A committee was
formed in order to establish guidelines for the
Enrichment Academy selection of participants, to
promote parent and community involvement, and to
plan student activities.
The Enrichment
Academy consists of 10
second grade students from 3 Rapides
Parish schools: Hadnot Hayes,
Acadian, and
North Bayou Rapides.
Students exhibiting high academic abilities at each
school went through a screening process in the fall
of 2007. The selection process was based on careful
screening of individual IOWA test scores, teacher
and parent recommendations, and special abilities of
the child.
Parental
involvement is a very integral part of this
program. Parents are asked to sign a contract
stating their commitment and willingness to
participate. They (or a representative from the
family) are encouraged to attend every
function that is provided for the students.
Transportation is available if needed so that
students and parents are able to attend all of the
events.
Program Overview
On the first
Saturday of each month the students receive
classroom instruction from a certified gifted
teacher in areas that involve
problem solving skills,
critical thinking activities, and test
taking strategies. Students also are exposed to
a variety of enrichment activities that challenge
curiosity, imagination, inventiveness, and foster
creative abilities.
From October -
April special events have been scheduled for the
students to attend as well. Such planned events
include the Enrichment Academy
Recognition/Orientation Day, musical performances,
field trips, and various kinds of unique
demonstrations. These activities provide a
variety of rich cultural and academic experiences
for the students.
During the month
of June the students
will be exposed to 2 weeks of intense classroom
instruction from a certified gifted teacher. The
instruction will involve high level thinking
activities and
Project
U-STARS Program. In the
fall of 2008 the Enrichment Academy students will be
tested for the gifted program.
Future Plans
Enrichment
Academy students who qualify for the gifted program
in Rapides Parish will be offered gifted services.
The search for 10
new participants for the 2008-2009 school year will
get underway.
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