Everett Public Schools' Vision 

Everett Public Schools Challenging Options Programs provide enriched and advanced academic opportunities, empowering students to achieve their highest potential. We aim to create an environment that challenges, supports, and empowers identified students, recognizing their unique abilities and needs. Our programs provide equitable access to services through rigorous curriculum that fosters intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. Our commitment extends to nurturing the social and emotional well-being of our students, ensuring they grow into confident, capable individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to society.  

In accordance with its philosophy to develop the special abilities of each student, Everett Public Schools shall offer appropriate instructional programs to meet the needs of Highly Capable students of school age. The framework for such programs shall encompass, but not be limited to, the following objectives:  

• Expansion of academic attainments and intellectual skills 

• Stimulation of intellectual curiosity, independence, and responsibility 

• Acceleration of specific content to meet student learning needs 

• Development of a positive attitude toward self and others 

• Development of originality and creativity  

Elementary School 

There are two programs to serve students in the elementary schools: learning enrichment in math, reading or both (formerly known as LEAP) and the Highly Capable self-contained classrooms. 

Learning Enrichment  

Students identified for learning enrichment are served in their general education classroom, with the same teacher, beginning in the second half of the school year in which they were initially identified. Learning enrichment is provided through differentiation and project-based experiences. Once a student is identified for learning enrichment, that designation continues through elementary school. 

Kindergarten: to refer a student for kindergarten screening, parents/guardians/teachers/community members complete a referral form by the posted deadline. Screening takes place in November/December at the student's home school. Screening results will be sent to families in January with information about identification and placement.  

First grade: the universal screener is administered to all students in September and October; there is no referral required. Results are sent to families in November. The screener is used to identify students who might qualify for learning enrichment in the second half of the school year and/or for recommendations to refer students to take the full battery of tests for Highly Capable identification. The full battery of Highly Capable tests requires a separate referral from parents/guardians/teachers/community member. Regardless of who makes the referral, the parent/guardian must sign the consent form for testing by the posted deadline. 

Highly Capable Program  

Self-contained, Highly Capable classes are offered for elementary students in grades 2-5 who meet the criteria as determined by multiple tests and data points. Parents/guardians/teachers/community members can refer students to be tested for possible identification and placement into the Highly Capable classes, which are located at nine elementary schools. Regardless of who refers the student, the parent/guardian must submit a signed consent form for their student to be tested. Referrals/consent forms must be submitted by the posted deadline. Highly Capable testing will take place in December and January; the results will be shared with families in February. 

Middle School 

Middle School offers accelerated pathways in English Language Arts and Mathematics, as well as courses in multiple content areas that offer high school credit. These classes are for students who are achieving at high academic levels and are motivated learners. Teachers or parents may refer students to these classes; students can also choose to enroll in the courses. For more information, contact your students’ school counselor or visit Everett Public Schools website. 

High School