Recently I was asked to think about taking the High Ability classroom in First grade. I currently teach in First but not the "High Ability" classroom. I am a big nerd so the chance to take more college classes is an exciting thing to me. I know... I know... you think I am crazy. I just love getting more information and love that I will be able to put that to use. It will require a ton of work but I believe that I can manage it all. I would be taking one class this summer and then one in the fall, spring and again in the summer. It would work out so that I only have to take one class at a time and I will be able to finish the courses before I would actually start teaching in the High Ability classroom. The teacher that is doing it now is willing to do it for one more year. This works out great since I have a little one heading into that class next year.
The reason I am writing about this is not to brag that my little lady is very bright or that I was asked to take that position. (they probably knew I was a sucker and wouldn't say no!) My reasoning is that I was a little unsure if I even agreed with the high ability programs. I was a little concerned when I first learned about the program beacuse I immediately thought about the studetns who know they are not in the "smart" class. Kids looks at things in so many ways that I was afraid that it would damage the perception that some students have of themselves. However, after much more thought I realized that the program is there to give those "smart" students the next level in their learning experience. They get to do more than the other students but they have to work hard for it. They have to earn it. Earning something that you have worked hard for is fair. Is it the right thing for those students? I think so and I am sure that after my class I will feel even better about the program. What do you think about High Ability Programs?
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