Overview: Challenging Options

  • Two young girls working on project

    Challenging Options provide accelerated and enriched academic opportunities for students in grades K-12.

    Elementary School

    There are two programs to serve students in the elementary schools: Learning Enrichment Achievement Program (LEAP) and the Highly Capable self-contained classrooms.

    Learning Enrichment Achievement Program (LEAP) 

    Students identified for LEAP 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. The program offers enrichment and acceleration through differentiation and project-based learning experiences. Once a student is identified for LEAP, that designation continues through elementary school.

    Kindergarten: to refer a student for kindergarten LEAP 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 LEAP identification. 

    First grade: the screener is administered to all students in October; there is no referral required. Results are sent to families in November. The screener is used to identify students who might qualify for LEAP 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 require 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

    Advanced Placement, College in the High School- CTE Dual Credit, and Running Start are among the challenging options available. High school students self-select these classes based upon their interests, skills, and abilities and with the guidance of parents and school counselors. For more information, contact your students’ school counselor or visit Everett Public Schools website. 

    For inquiries, contact: 
    Elementary Schools

    Highly Capable Program
    Krystal Gil, Administrative Assistant
    Lindsey de Carteret, Administrative Assistant
    425-385-4033
    highlycapable@everettsd.org 

    Middle & High Schools 
    College and Career Readiness and Extended Learning Options
    Jaci Barbano
    425-385-4065

    Everett Public Schools
    3900 Broadway
    Everett, WA 98201