Mission and Goals of WSD Highly Capable Programs

Mission Statement: To find and nurture talent in students by providing and supporting opportunities for them to pursue their interests at an appropriate pace and level of complexity, and regular opportunities to work with students of similar abilities.

Program Objectives Relating to Wenatchee School District Goals:

Goal I: Enhance Student Learning
In order to foster an atmosphere of talent development, the Highly Capable Program will provide and support opportunities for students to:

• be introduced to new experiences and ideas through speakers, assemblies, mentors and exploratory activities
• work regularly with other students of similar (advanced) abilities and talents 
• learn the skills necessary to reach their goals as they pursue their interests and talents 
• conduct in-depth investigations that simulate the work of practicing professionals 
• participate in self-directed learning that culminates in a product or performance for an authentic audience 

Goal II: Evaluate and Resolve Facility Needs
The Highly Capable Program will advocate for adequate space, storage and equipment for HiCap classes in every building.

Goal III: Ensure Safety and Security of Staff and Students
The Highly Capable Program will provide opportunities for students to interact regularly with their intellectual peers in a safe and supportive environment that recognizes and affirms the unique characteristics of highly capable students.

Goal IV: Involve Parent and Community
The Highly Capable Program will provide opportunities for parents to :

• be involved in advanced level learning activities
• provide input for student services
• attend workshops on topics that enhance student learning

Goal V: Affirm the Organizational Environment
The HiCap Specialists will provide support to teachers, parents and administrators by:

• providing a fair and equitable system to identify students for HiCap services in accordance with the Washington Administrative Code.
• providing staff development on how to meet the needs of highly capable students in regular classrooms
• sharing resources, books and materials pertinent to the needs of highly capable students
• communicating research and best practices through newsletters, published articles, presentations, correspondence and inservice opportunities
• collaborating with other departments to promote common goals and to help prepare students to participate in advanced classes
• evaluating the HiCap program on a regular basis using data from the district assessment system and input from teachers, administrators, parents and students.