MAERCKER ACADEMICALLY TALENTED STUDENTS
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The Maercker Academically Talented Students (MATS) Program begins at the third grade level. Students in grades three through five have the opportunity for enrichment on a semester basis. These students meet once a week in a pull-out program. The first semester area of concentration is Problem Solving with an emphasis on critical thinking. The second semester area of concentration is Writing with an emphasis on the connection of writing and reading along with the use of technology to enhance writing. The criterion for entrance into the program includes all or a portion of the following when appropriate : The MATS Program continues at the sixth grade level. At this level, students are identified and receive pull-out enrichment services once a week throughout the school year. Although the pull-out MATS Program ends at sixth grade, academically advanced seventh and eighth grade students are then identified in the area of language arts and mathematics. These identified students are placed in advanced language arts and/or mathematics courses. Further information on the MATS Program may be viewed by going to the Maercker School website, clicking on classrooms, and then clicking on MATS.
PHILOSOPHY Maercker District 60 recognizes the uniqueness of each child who enters our learning environment. We acknowledge our responsibility to develop each student to his/her fullest potential. While District 60's basic curriculum continues to serve as the main foundation of learning, alternative learning opportunities take into account characteristics and subsequent needs of the gifted learner. The Constitution of the State of Illinois Article X - Section I states, "a fundamental goal of the people of the State is the educational development of all persons to the limit of their capabilities." (1) Our District's philosophy is also in accord with the State of Illinois guidelines which define gifted and talented children as those who "consistently excel or show the potential to be consistently superior in one or more of the following areas of human endeavor:
Maercker District 60 maintains the belief that highly capable students require differentiated programs that go beyond those normally provided in the regular curriculum. To achieve that goal, the program will provide services which focus on the needs of these students.
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