“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”
— Lao Tzu
The Highly Capable Program was implemented in the Edmonds School District to provide support for students identified as requiring services beyond the normal learning environment to be successful. Highly capable students (sometimes referred to as gifted) are identified following Washington State Administrative Code's Definition of Gifted Students (WAC 392-170-035 and WAC 392-170-036).
In order to have a student assessed for the Highly Capable Program, students must live within the Edmonds School District boundary, be at least in kindergarten, complete a referral packet including parent signature, and submit all required documents prior to the posted deadline. Students are then required to take the CogAT given by Edmonds School District proctors.
Detailed and up-to-date information can be found on the District website, see links below:
Highly Capable Program Overview >
Referral and Testing Information >
Program Overview
CHALLENGE
Elementary (grades 1-6)
At the elementary level, identified students are served through a full-time, self-contained program housed at Terrace Park School called the Challenge Program.
The Challenge classrooms differentiate the standards-based curriculum by providing an environment which allows students to identify and solve complex problems, explore concepts in greater depth and complexity, and to develop and create unique opportunities.
Using the National Association for Gifted Children Standards, the curriculum, instruction, and pacing is considerably more advanced and at a higher level than a regular classroom.
HIGHLY CAPABLE
Middle (grades 7-8)
At the middle school level, identified students are served through a full-time program housed at Brier Terrace Middle School and called the Highly Capable Program.
Highly capable students are typically academically advanced or demonstrate high intellectual capability. Students are often independent learners who thrive on progressively challenging opportunities, utilizing advanced problem-solving and enjoy in-depth study.
Using the National Association for Gifted Children Standards, the curriculum, instruction, and pacing is considerably more advanced and at a higher level than a regular classroom or an Honors program.
Various opportunities
High School (grades 9-12)
High school students have many opportunities for their high school educational goals. Eighth grade students who took the CogAT test, qualified as gifted, and/or are already in the Program will have the option to select one of the following programs:
Edmonds Woodway — full-time Honors grades 9-10 and full-time IB Program Diploma grades 11-12
Mountlake Terrace — full time STEM Magnet Program grades 9-12.
Attend your neighborhood high school and take Honors in grades 9-10; Advanced Placement and/or College in the High School in grades 11-12; or choose to participate in Running Start.
Elementary and Middle School
Students that live outside of the Terrace Park school boundaries will be provided the opportunity to ride the bus from their neighborhood elementary school. It is the parent’s responsibility to get their student to the neighborhood school in time to catch the bus.
Middle School
Students that live outside of the Brier Terrace Middle school boundaries will be provided the opportunity to ride the bus from their neighborhood middle school. It is the parent’s responsibility to get their student to the neighborhood school in time to catch the bus.
High School
High school students that choose to attend a high school outside of their service area will not be provided transportation.
Contact the Transportation Department (425-431-7230) for more information.