The district's World's Best Workforce document details the mission of High Potential Programming, and it details how students are identified for participation in the programming. Students in grades 5-8 may take Advanced Math and/or Advanced English Language Arts. They may also take STEM as a responsive hour class, along with other enrichment-based responsive hour classes. There are additional enrichment opportunities as part of the extracurricular activities at the middle level.
"The mission of St. Michael-Albertville High Potential Programming is to challenge and meet the needs of academically talented students in grades 3-8 by enhancing the Math and Language Arts curriculum and providing learning opportunities beyond the general school program in these two subject areas. Students are assessed annually for placement in High Potential Programming services; therefore, participation in the program can vary from year to year based on students’ developmental needs. Data points are screened annually to identify students who may qualify for high potential programming. A committee of educators reviews MAP, FastBridge Assessments and MCA-III scores as well as classroom performance data and teacher recommendations in order to ensure the appropriate educational placement for each student. The identification process for levels of programming and its components are described in detail in the documents referenced above."
As stated in the district's World's Best Workforce document, "Acceleration can mean completion of the K-12 program in less than 13 years as well as earlier introduction and use of curriculum content and materials."
Acceleration and enrichment at the middle level includes: grade-skipping, single-subject acceleration, and curriculum compacting (elementary and middle school math).
There are many different paths for students to pursue advanced coursework at the high school and college levels. Please view an informational presentation on earning college credit while in high school here. Reach out to the guidance counselors at the high school for more information.
Information on the options below came from the World's Best Workforce document, which is updated annually.
Algebra 1.5, Algebra 2, Biology, English 9, English 10, English 11, Geometry, Physical Science, Spanish I, Spanish II, Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Digital Electronics, Video Design and Woodshop.
Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Macro Economics, Micro Economics, English, Music Theory, Physics 1, Physics C, Probability & Statistics, Psychology, Spanish, Studio Art, US History and World History as Advanced Placement coursework.
Students are eligible to take the Advanced Placement test in the spring to earn college credit.
Articulated Credit is intended to provide technical and community college credit to students while they are attending high school classes.
Students can earn college credit in high school at no cost to them. Classes are taught by high school teachers, at the high school.
Students may receive a Business Certificate upon completion (minimum grade of 80%) of the required business courses. This certificate certify that the student has completed a comprehensive course of study in business. It will serve as a certification of competency in securing employment in the business field and/or entering a business program on the college level.
Algebra, Chemistry, Spanish and Pre-Calculus are offered as college level courses which upon successful completion the student is eligible to earn college credit.
Students must meet the following in order to be eligible to enroll in these courses, juniors (top 33%) and seniors (top 50%).
PLTW prepares students to be innovative and productive leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and to make meaningful, pioneering contributions to our world. Through an engaging, hands-on curriculum, PLTW encourages the development of problem-solving skills, critical thinking, creative and innovative reasoning, and a love of learning.
Eligible juniors (top 33%) and seniors (top 50%) at STMA High School may enroll in a Minnesota post-secondary college on a full or part-time basis. The intent of the program is to promote rigorous educational pursuits and provide a wider variety of options for students while they earn college credit.
If you're looking for district-related enrichment resources, check out the page linked above.
For additional state and national enrichment opportunities, head to our Get Involved, Get Connected page.
Reach out to the people below if you'd like more information about anything related to high school level high potential programming.
Building level: Administrators, High School Activities Director, classroom teachers, and/or guidance counselors/social workers
District level: Director of Teaching and Learning (and current High Potential Coordinator), Director of Curriculum and Student Programming (and High Potential Coordinator starting July 2020), Testing and Assessment Coordinator, District Advisory Committee, School Board, and/or Superintendent
State level: Minnesota Department of Education