EXCEL’s Role

MSAD #50 has adopted the state definition of giftedness to be those children in grades K – 12 who excel in the areas of general intellectual ability, specific academic aptitude or artistic ability, or have the potential to excel beyond their age peers in the regular school program, to the extent that they need and can benefit from programs for the gifted and talented.

The EXCEL Program is designed to provide a continuum of programming services for gifted learners. We have elected to provide programs that expand on the learning concepts and skills found in our curricula and in the Maine Learning Results. We provide services in all academic and creative areas designated by the state in Chapter 104 of the state statutes. These programs integrate with the regular classroom and stimulate the development of critical and creative thinking.

Philosophy

We believe that gifted and talented students have unique learning profiles that require specialized programs. These programs should promote analysis, creativity, and the application of instructional concepts to everyday issues and problems within a setting that matches students’ educational needs.

The History of EXCEL

In 1995, MSAD #50 organized a gifted and talented study group to assess the needs for services within the district. This study group, consisting of interested district staff, parents, and board members, worked long and hard to develop the blueprints for a diverse, exemplary program to meet the needs of our very able learners.

They presented their findings to the Board of Directors in March, 1996, and proposed the formation of the EXCEL Program.

In January 1999, the first EXCEL teacher was hired, and the program was finally off and running. Eight specific program features were outlined by the study committee, including on-going staff training, direct support of classroom teachers, a commitment to the use of authentic and multi-dimensional assessment, relevant and logical acceptance criteria and continuing performance standards for sustained involvement.

The study group also recommended the formation of a permanent EXCEL Advisory Board to continue their work.

Today, the program employs two EXCEL teachers and is guided by an Advisory Board comprised of interested teachers, parents and community members. It is their mission to monitor program status, contribute to policy setting activities and discussions, and provide a link with the community.

For More Information about EXCEL

All students in MSAD #50 are screened every year for participation in EXCEL programs. This process takes place every fall, but is also revisited throughout the year. Referrals are accepted at any time, and can be made by teachers, parents, community members and Student Assistance Teams as well as students themselves. Referral forms can be requested from school guidance offices or from EXCEL teachers directly. These forms should be completed and then returned to either the EXCEL teacher or guidance counselor.

MSAD #50 is committed to an identification process and procedure that is fair and provides for the nomination and selection of students from all populations within the district. Significant objective and subjective information is considered in the screening process.