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School Wide Enrichment
Model According to Joseph Renzulli
(Schools for Talent Development, p. 40, 1994) "Schools should not be places
where young people merely learn what is already known. Rather, they should
aspire to a higher calling that includes creating a learning environment in
which present knowledge is viewed as stepping stones to the creation of new
knowledge, to the solutions of unsolved problems, and to invention, artistic
production, and examination of ways to improve life on Earth." The School wide Enrichment Model at
Mountain Park Elementary is a practical model for infusing "high-end
learning" into local school efforts while simultaneously challenging all
students. The model involves comprehensive collaborative planning by
teachers, specialists, administrators, and parents. A focus on developing
student creativity and higher level thinking skills incorporates a hands-on
approach to learning, taking into consideration student interests and
learning styles. The program is unique to our school based on our student
population, faculty strengths and talents, and community resources. Engaging
students in meaningful activities to enhance the existing curriculum is the
key to the success of In response to a letter we wrote to
Dr. Joseph Renzulli describing our School wide Enrichment Program, his words
about our program reflect the pride we share in becoming what we are today. "For
me, this is what it is all about - knowing that our work is helping educators
help kids. Your letter is more rewarding to me than awards or publications or
any other things that professors gauge their productivity by." (Dr.
Joseph Renzulli, University of Connecticut, 1998) SEM Units
of Study
Kindergarten
The Crazy Story Ladies
read “Walter the Baker” to students for WOW:
The Wonder of Words SEM
First Grade Ms. Newkirk at the
Mexican Fiesta
First Grade students
mailed a letter while on their field trip to the post office.
First grade students
wrote letters and sent “Flat Stanley” to people around the world!
Ms. Welch’s class creates
Native American artifacts to display at their Other classes, parents,
and families visit the Native American Museum This student made a
parafleche (bag). A diorama
of the Plains Indians’ home
Ms. Welch and students
enjoy tea and friendship at their Japanese Tea Ceremony. Ms. Barlow shows a
student how to use chopsticks. Friends enjoy
conversation about
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