Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Challenge Program?
The Challenge Program consists of a number of different opportunities that allows intellectually gifted and creatively talented students to experience a differentiated curriculum.
Who is eligible for Challenge Program activities?
Eligibility varies by the specific opportunity (e.g. Accelerated Math and Challenge Art have different criteria). However, the following provide a general idea of entrance criteria:
* Students are qualified for the Challenge Program by a Screening Assessment for Gifted Elementary (SAGE K-3 or SAGE 4-8) test score of 115+ or Combination of SAGE, or by the Metropolitan Achievement Test (MAT) scores or Teacher Nomination (Gifted Evaluation Scale [GES] form);
* Students who score at or above the 95th percentile in total battery, math, reading, or language on a standardized achievement test;
* Students who have a teacher recommendation for creativity, performance ability or other characteristics, not well measured by standardized testing.
What opportunities are provided through the Challenge Program?
* Elementary Programs include: Challenge Counseling, Habitat (2nd grade), Omnibus (3rd grade), Theatre Seminars (4th grade), Archaeology (5th grade), 5th Grade PhotoShop, WonderWise Science Nights (5th grade girls), Einstein Science Nights (5th grade boys), Knowledge Masters (5th grade), Special Arts (5th grade), Accelerated Math and Math Days (6th grade) and Weekly Challenge Classes (K-5 grades).
* The Middle School offers a Challenge class through the Exploratory block and Challenge activities such as: Knowledge Masters, Nebraska Scholars' Academy (NSA), and Quiz Bowl.
* The Junior High School offers Accelerated Math, Challenge Electives, Independent Study, Knowledge Masters, Quiz Bowl and Talent Identification Program (TIP).
* The Senior High School offers college preparatory, advanced placement classes and co-curricular activities.
How does this affect my child's placement?
The child remains in a heterogeneous classroom for most of the day, but may also participate in a Challenge group. In exceptional cases, a modified learning plan or placement above grade level may be considered. At the secondary level, admittance to the Challenge Program allows the student to register for certain classes restricted to Challenge students.
What do I do if I think my child(ren) should be in the Challenge Program?
Talk to the building Principal and the Challenge Facilitator to find out about your child's placement and the actual program offerings in your building. A review process may be initiated, if appropriate.
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