The district is piloting an enrichment program for grades 1-5. The program is beginning at Tooker Avenue Elementary School this year with the goal of expanding to each of the elementary schools in the near future. 

Since the elementary schools revamped to a period schedule a few years ago to allow for dedicated reading/writing, social studies and science periods, there’s now an opportunity for a flex period built into the day. That period, according to Tooker Avenue Principal Charles Germano, is being used for dedicated intervention services in addition to enrichment opportunities. “We are making sure that each student is getting exactly what they need, whether it be support services in the appropriate areas or academic enrichment to challenge them,” he said.

Students are pulled out of their classrooms to work with teacher Mr. DeBiccari for their enrichment lessons, which focus on hands-on, STEM-based activities as well as advanced reading, writing and math. Students are chosen to participate in the program based on multiple data points and teacher recommendations. 

Students who are receiving tier 1 or 2 support services are also re-evaluated three times per year to make sure each of their specific needs are being met. The overall goal is to have specific growth in each of the subject areas while helping to create stronger students with greater academic success.