Best Practices in Elementary YS
"A list of best educational practices must be coupled with a perspective about students and learning that emphasizes strengths instead of weaknesses, differences rather than deficits, possibilities as opposed to limitations, and solutions instead of obstacles."
Unlocking Emergent Talent, 2012, Olszewski-Kubilius and Clarenbach
When reflecting on how school practices impact Young Scholars, consider the various research-based strategies that support Young Scholars in their social-emotional and academic growth.
These strategies include:
- Relationship Building
- Transitional Supports (elementary to middle and middle to high)
- Academic Supports
- Summer Programs
The examples below include possible strategies to support Young Scholars implemented in FCPS
Cluster Grouping Young Scholars
Provide access, advocacy, and affirmation by clustering Young Scholars together in homeroom classes with teachers who will nurture their potential and provide the support needed for students to succeed.
Young Scholars Summer Camp
FCPS supports a limited number of Young Scholars summer programs in schools with large numbers of YS. If your school is not one of the schools that qualifies for a centrally funded YS summer school program, your school may choose to fund the program. Curriculum training for teachers is available at the AAP Summer Institute.
Young Scholars Teacher Advisory Committee
Groveton Elementary has convened a committee of dedicated staff members representing a wide variety of roles in the school to collectively lead the focus on Young Scholars for the school. The committee meets to self-assess using the Young Scholars implementation rubric and propose school goals and outcomes to staff. They are committed to professional development to advance fidelity of the model and sit on CLTs to ensure consideration of the essential elements and considerations are part of the conversation.
