Program Overview K-12

LEO Program

The gifted program at the elementary and intermediate levels is known as LEO (Learning Enrichment Opportunities) and includes grades K-6. TAG is offered in grades 7-12.

Kindergarten, Grades 1, 2, and 3

All kindergarten, first, second, and third graders participate in thinking skills class lessons taught by the LEO/TAG teacher approximately once per month. Some students may also be invited to participate in small group activities based on the thinking skills categories of the Primary Education Thinking Skills curriculum. These small groups are identified by classroom teachers and taught by LEO staff in the resource room.

Grades 3, 4, 5, and 6

Some students in these grade levels are recommended for participation in Reading or Math Strength groups taught by the LEO staff. These flexible groups change throughout the year and are based on district testing data at each school. 

Grades 4, 5, and 6

Some students in these grades are recommended for participation in the Challenge Group based on the Cognitive Abilities Test, Iowa Statewide Assessments of Student Progress, and NWEA Measures of Academic Progress (when available). Students complete enrichment units in small groups led by the LEO teacher.

 

TAG Differentiated Classes

Grades 7 and 8

Students identified for gifted programming at the middle school level participate in differentiated core courses. The 7th grade course is a differentiated literacy (reading/language arts) class, and the 8th grade course is a differentiated language arts class. Each class meets daily in place of the like-content regular education classes. Students in these TAG courses earn a grade and credit.

TAG students meet the same grade-level content standards as those in the regular education classes. However, because of their unique abilities, they are able to move at a faster pace through the material. They may participate in in-depth research projects which develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. The differentiated courses require increased student responsibility for learning.

High School TAG

The high school TAG program begins in 9th grade with a required quarter-long career awareness and college planning seminar designed especially for TAG students. Students have the opportunity to meet with the TAG Teacher throughout their time in high school for additional help planning for their time in high school and beyond. Advanced Placement courses are also available to all students in the district in these upper grades.