FAQs

How does GT work in the middle schools?

GT in middle school offers four levels of service, including differentiated assignments and enrichment opportunities, flexible grouping, advanced math classes, and individualized services. Through faster pacing, adjusted lesson plans and/or differentiated curriculum, teachers offer many challenges in each class. Because teachers are experts in their subject areas, they are best equipped to handle challenge opportunities within the classroom. By providing challenge right in the class we are preparing students for high school, where they will not be pulled out of classes.

District 196 excels in offering students many and various choices and opportunities to enrich their middle school experience. Students can sign up and join these activities for fun and to learn a lot, too! We have clubs for strong readers and writers, mathematicians, geographers, leaders, trivia buffs, artists, and even budding chefs. Students can choose what they want to be a part of when they are in middle school, and we believe that their involvement makes their experience more enjoyable.

GT students will meet periodically with the GT coordinator during mid-day IRISH Time to discuss topics pertinent to high ability students. GT students will meet in small group sessions based on topic interest and need. No homework is assigned and no report card grades are given.

We want our RMS students to get involved - try new things - expand their horizons!

How do I know what GT classes my child has? What will they learn in each class?

GT students are placed in cluster groups for their core subjects when possible. This allows high ability students to work together as well as making it easier for the classroom teacher to provide for their needs through differentiated instruction. Teachers of GT students are experienced in their subject area and have worked with high ability students. If you have questions about the curriculum, please contact the teacher. They can tell you what is expected of your child and what advanced opportunities are offered in the class. The GT Coordinator will offer works with GT students in the classroom at the request of the teacher.

Are accelerated classes a part of GT services for 6th graders?

In sixth grade, identified GT students are clustered into language arts, math, MN studies and science classes. Teachers provide curriculum to challenge high ability students. Beginning in seventh grade, some students may qualify for the accelerated mathematics program and continue to be clustered within English, science and/or social studies classes.

My child is concerned because the teacher has not said anything about GT.

Usually teachers do not use those terms when talking to the entire class just as they do not use the terms “LD student” (learning disorder) or “EL student” (English language learner). Sometimes a label can cause stress, pressure to behave in a certain way, or negative feelings. Some students think they are in the wrong class when they do not hear GT. All GT students’ schedules have been reviewed to make sure they are in the correct classes. The GT coordinator is given a list of identified students in order to monitor placement and offer activities.

What if my child is bored in class?

While boredom is not a desired feeling, at times boredom happens, and we work to learn how to manage that emotion. Rosemount Middle School has many opportunities available for each student to succeed both in classes and beyond the classroom. If you feel that your child needs more challenging work, please contact the classroom teachers or GT Coordinator.

Can students who aren’t identified as GT still participate in challenges and enrichment activities?

Absolutely! All students who want challenging activities are encouraged to participate in enrichment opportunities. Almost all enrichments are open to all students.

How do students find out what is offered through GT? What enrichment experiences are there?

Students should ask classroom teachers about enrichments in their classes or ask the GT Coordinators about beyond the classroom enrichments and activities. Announcements about enrichments offered are often in the daily bulletin, through individual notices and posted in the library. I maintain a GTYS group in Schoology to communicate opportunities to students and provide resources for problem-solving, creative thinking, discussions, etc.