- Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools
- Welcome To Q.U.E.S.T.
Q.U.E.S.T. and Enrichment Programs (Grades 3-8)
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The Scotch Plains – Fanwood Public School District is committed to providing learning opportunities which will stimulate all children while simultaneously meeting the unique needs of the academically talented student
QUEST (Question, Understand, Explore, Seek, and Think) is a program for academically talented students in the district elementary and middle schools. The goals of the QUEST program are to
- Develop students’ conceptual understanding of real-world themes, issues, and problems
- Provide advanced opportunities for students to think and problem solve
- Enhance students’ creative thinking skills and encourage innovation
- Develop students’ metacognitive skills to foster independence and self-directed learning
- Develop students’ social skills though positive peer relationships and social interactions
- Engage students in individual and cooperative learning environments where they have the opportunity to clarify and negotiate their thinking with others
In addition to in-school opportunities, students are involved in special activities, which enable them to interact with other identified students in our district and in neighboring districts. These activities help to prepare our learners for meaningful participation in both the classroom and community by valuing their individuality, recognizing their skills and instilling in them an appreciation of their ability to contribute to society.
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Our Team
Ms. Shannon Albino – McGinn and Coles
Ms. Deborah Close – Brunner and Evergreen
Ms. Caren Comeau – Terrill Middle School
Ms. Joan Jennings – Park Middle School
Ms. Charity Morris – School One
Ms. Erin Mullman - Program Supervisor
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Identification Process
Identification Process
Multiple criteria are used to identify academically talented students in grades 4-8. All students are reviewed annually using grade-specific criteria. The annual review process begins in the spring and concludes in September of the new school year when eligible students are notified. Once a student enters the QUEST program, the student may continue participating in the program each year through 8th grade.
Students entering grades 7 and 8 can also nominate themselves for the QUEST program by creating and presenting a portfolio of their work demonstrating their talents and abilities. Portfolios are reviewed by a committee of teachers and district administrators. Students may be invited to a brief interview with the committee to share personal reflections of their work. More information about the Self-Nomination process is available from the QUEST teachers and counselors at the middle schools.
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Continuum of Services
Gifted and Talented Continuum of Services
2020-2021Kindergarten through
Grade 3Students identified as academically talented through the analysis of district benchmark assessments in reading, writing and mathematics. Classroom teachers differentiate instruction to meet the needs of students in each subject area and consult with the Gifted & Talented teachers as needed.
Mathematics and Writing Enrichment classes will be held throughout the year that will be open to all students.
Grade 4
Students identified for gifted and talented are enrolled in the QUEST program. This is a pull-out program that meets for an hour each week. The focus of the 4th Grade unit is Innovation and Change.
Identification Measures:
- Grade 3 CogATs
- Gifted Rating Scales
- Trimester 2 Report Card Grades
- Parent Questionnaire
Grade 5
Students identified for gifted and talented are enrolled in the QUEST program. This is a pull-out program that meets for an hour each week. The focus of the 5th Grade unit is Space Exploration.
Identification Measures:
- Grade 3 CogATs
- Grade 3 NJSLA
- Gifted Rating Scales
- Trimester 2 Report Card Grades
Grade 6
Students identified for gifted and talented are enrolled in the QUEST program. This is a pull-out program that meets for an hour each week. The focus of the 6th grade unit is Sustainable Energy.
Identification Measures:
- Grade 3 CogATs
- Grade 4 NJSLA
- Academically Talented Identification Scale
Grade 7
Students identified for gifted and talented are enrolled in the QUEST program. This is a pull-out program that meets for an hour each week. The focus of the 7th grade units is Storytelling in the Opera and Google Apps.
Identification Measures:
- Grade 5 CogATs
- Grade 5 NJSLA
- Academically Talented Identification Scale
- Self-Nomination
Grade 8
Students identified for gifted and talented are enrolled in the QUEST program. This is a pull-out program that meets for an hour each week. The focus of the 8th Grade unit is Photography and Genius Hour projects.
Identification Measures:
- Grade 5 CogATs
- Grade 6 NJSLA
- Academically Talented Identification Scale
- Self-Nomination
Grades 9-12
Students identified as advanced learners will receive academic instruction at the honors and/or advanced placement level in all major content areas and in specialized courses as identified in the Program of Studies.
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Link to Board Policy Related to Gifted and Talented
2464- GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS
2415.20- NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND COMPLAINTS