SEM (Schoolwide Enrichment Model) and School Programs for Gifted and High Ability Students The SEM Specialist provides enrichment and accelerated learning activities, as well as resources for teachers. This specialist works with school staff to meet the needs of gifted and high ability students. Daily SEM Math is offered for second and third grade students. These students have been formally identified, had top scores on standardized tests, and/or were recommended by classroom teachers. The Everyday Math program is used and is supplemented with challenging activities. Each week, students work in the school computer lab to solve problems, matched to their math achievement levels. Some students attend SEM Geometry and Spatial Activities classes in the afternoon. These students have shown strengths in spatial skill areas. They solve a variety of puzzles and use vocabulary and concepts which are above grade level. Each spring, a SEM Kindergarten class meets to study bugs. This topic is connected to SFA classroom studies about plants and the environment. Students use a variety of nonfiction resources and are introduced to field guides and the use of an index. Through a collaboration with the Loft Literary Center, a class of third grade writers has worked with a guest poet. This has been offered in three recent years. We have enjoyed this enrichment writing opportunity and look forward to working with Loft writers in the future. Many features of the school program benefit gifted and high ability students. These include full-day Kindergarten, a focus on the needs of primary students, a computer lab, a newly remodeled library, and small class sizes. Some enrichment activities are offered before and after school. Success for All, the reading program used at Roosevelt, consists of 90-minute daily classes for students in grades 1, 2 and 3. Many elements of SFA match gifted education standards. These include: * Students are grouped by reading ability. (Many Roosevelt SFA classes are reading at above grade level!) * Students are challenged with advanced pace and difficult content. * Reading studies and writing activities are based on a variety of fiction and nonfiction selections. * Students use higher order thinking skills in SFA activities. Many unique learning opportunities are available at Roosevelt Elementary for gifted and high ability students! SEM SEM Poetry Writing with the Loft Literacy Center