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We are fortunate in the state of Washington to have laws mandating a K-12 continuum of Highly Capable services. Highly Capable is the term used in Washington state, but it is referred to as gifted in other states and countries. In West Valley, we offer a variety of leveled services at the elementary level that strive to meet the unique needs of Highly Capable learners.
Our full-time services for grades 3 through 5 are housed at Wide Hollow STEAM Elementary, known as the Program for Advanced Learners (PAL). See the PAL page on this site for more information about those services.
Grades K-2
All services at these grade levels are delivered through differentiation by the general classroom teachers. Resources are available to teachers through a Google Classroom of materials, or by reaching out to the Coordinator.
Grades 3-5
Level 3:
Student receives services in all subject areas.
They are prioritized for placement in the full-time PAL (Program for Advanced Learners) classes at Wide Hollow STEAM Elementary.
These classes are led by teachers with specialized training in meeting the needs of HiCap students through daily accelerated and enhanced instruction across topics.
The district can provide transportation if needed.
Level 2:
Student receives services in all subject areas.
They may choose to attend the PAL classes at Wide Hollow STEAM Elementary if space is available.
Alternatively, they may remain at their neighborhood school. General classroom teachers are encouraged to provide differentiation to meet HiCap needs. Resources are available to teachers through a Google Classroom of materials, or by reaching out to the Coordinator.
Level 1:
Student receives services in either Language Arts or Math, depending on their placement.
They will remain in their general classroom, with teachers encouraged to provide differentiated instruction in their area of placement. Resources are available to teachers through a Google Classroom of materials, or by reaching out to the Coordinator.
Additional Enrichment K-5
All HiCap students will have access to a Highly Capable Google Classroom with optional enrichment activities.
These activities are not meant to replace advanced classroom instruction. They are not monitored or graded by teachers. They are available 24/7 for independent exploration by all HiCap students.
Our goal is to help families make a well-informed best placement decision for their student. It is best to get information about each school's program services directly from the teachers and staff at those schools with firsthand knowledge and experience in those services. To learn how Highly Capable Needs are met at each of the elementary schools through differentiation in the general classrooms, sometimes referred to as Benchmark and Beyond, please contact the building principal for that school.
UPDATE: On March 12, 2025 the linked update to the Program for Advanced Learners (PAL) was posted to the main WVSD website and sent out to families.
Contacts
Contacts
Wendy Clark
Highly Capable Program Coordinator
(509)972-5700 ext 3746
Jerilyn Ashbaugh
State & Federal Programs Director
(509)902-8810
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