GOTCHA

(Gifted Or Talented at Chester Academy)

 

 

Statement of Philosophy:

 

            We believe that giftedness exists in all domains, and that all children demonstrate superlative abilities and talents in some areas. We believe that some students possess exceptional abilities specifically in the areas of academic achievement, creativity, and motivation.  We believe that these students have specific needs as a result of these abilities that the school has a responsibility to meet.  These needs include: appropriately challenging and engaging academic work, proper emotional support, participation in a group of similarly able peers, and the ability to have some input into their academic program.  If these gifts are not nurtured in each student, this can lead to a lack of motivation and a negative school experience for these children.

            In conjunction, we feel that all students should have the opportunity to be recognized for their strengths and talents and that the entire school community has a responsibility to engage students at their appropriate level, both inside and outside the classroom.  We believe that developing these talents and challenging each student at his/her individual level is an integral part of preparing students for their role in a global community.

 

 

GOTCHA Mission Statement

 

GOTCHA’s mission encompasses three distinct, but interconnected areas:

 

            GOTCHA’s primary mission is to identify and engage all students who exhibit exceptional intellectual abilities, creativity, and academic perseverance in the areas of Math and Language Arts.  We will provide opportunities for these identified students in the form of direct instruction, talent development, classroom differentiation and appropriate peer grouping.   Our mission also includes helping all members of our community to understand the specific needs of these students and to provide proper emotional support.

 

            The GOTCHA program will provide an increasing number of talent development activities for any students who have previously demonstrated strengths and interest in a particular area.

 

            GOTCHA will also promote and facilitate classroom differentiation and curriculum enrichment for all students in our community.  This will be accomplished through teacher training, cluster grouping of students, resource building, and activity planning throughout the grade levels.