Mary M. Knight School District Highly Capable Program
Program Overview
The Mary M. Knight School District is committed to maximizing the potential of every student. Our Highly Capable Program serves students who demonstrate exceptional cognitive and academic abilities. The program provides K-12 students with accelerated learning opportunities and enhanced instruction designed to develop their unique capabilities.
Definition of Highly Capable Students
Highly capable students demonstrate or show potential for performing at significantly advanced academic levels compared with others of their age, experiences, or environments. These students exhibit:
Exceptional intellectual aptitude
Strong academic abilities
Creative thinking capabilities
Outstanding productivity within specific domains
Key Learning Characteristics
Highly capable students often demonstrate:
Unusual depth of understanding and exceptional retention
Advanced ability to handle abstract concepts
Creative connections between ideas
Rapid learning in areas of strength
Intense focus and concentration
Universal Screening and Referral Process
Our identification process prioritizes equitable access for all students, with particular attention to identifying low-income students who may be highly capable.
Universal Screening
Mandatory screening conducted in or before 2nd grade
Second mandatory screening in or before 6th grade
Multiple data points considered, including standardized tests and classroom performance
Referral Options
Parents/guardians may refer their children
Teachers may refer students
Community members may submit referrals
Students may be referred at any grade level
Assessment Process
Our comprehensive assessment process includes:
Written parental permission required before testing
Multiple objective criteria used for evaluation
Assessment tools may include:
Cognitive abilities testing
Academic achievement measures
Classroom performance data
State assessment results
Key assessment principles:
Multiple pathways for qualification
No single criterion can disqualify a student
Local norms considered but not more restrictive than national norms
Assessments available in native language when possible
Nonverbal assessments used when appropriate
Selection Process
A Multi-Disciplinary Selection Committee reviews all data to determine program placement. The committee includes:
District administrator
Psychologist or assessment specialist
Teacher
Program coordinator
Additional professionals as needed
Selection decisions are based on:
Evidence of exceptional cognitive/academic ability
Demonstrated need for highly capable services
Potential benefit from program participation
Program Services
Our program provides:
Accelerated learning opportunities
Enhanced instruction
Academic challenge appropriate to student abilities
Continuous services throughout K-12
Regular review of student progress and program effectiveness
Appeals Process
Parents/legal guardians have the right to appeal placement decisions:
Submit written appeal with supporting evidence
Appeals reviewed by district committee
Decisions communicated in writing
Further appeal options available if applicable
Exit Process
Students may exit the program through:
Parent/guardian request
Student choice
Program recommendation based on performance review
Continued support available during transition
Contact Information
For questions about the Highly Capable Program, please contact:
[Joshua Stoney: Principal/Program Director Name] Mary M. Knight School District [Phone: 360-426-6767 Ext: 119] [Email: jstoney@mmk.wednet.edu]
All program procedures align with Washington State requirements (WAC 392-170) and Mary M. Knight School District Policies 2190 and 2190P.