Saugatuck Public Schools

Gifted & Talented Services

Saugatuck Public Schools are dedicated to the idea that every student has the right to an education that provides opportunities for the maximum development of his/her potential. We believe we can best meet our students' educational needs by offering a continuum of gifted and talented services.

Differentiated instruction is how Saugatuck teachers at all levels meet the day-to-day academic needs of our high ability learners. Our teachers know that different learners within the same classroom have different educational needs. Teachers design learning opportunities for students according to learning style, readiness and interest. Teachers may offer students different content to work with, alter the process for learning the content, or give students an opportunity to show mastery using a different product. Differentiated instruction allows teachers to provide those opportunities without labeling or obviously isolating individual learners in the classroom. In addition, Saugatuck Public Schools Curriculum and G/T Coordinator Michaelle Gust, is available to assist classroom teachers in the planning of modified activities and lessons for high ability students.

In grades 3rd - 8th, approximately 3% - 5% of SPS students consistently score in the 95%ile or higher on multiple standardized measures. For those students, Mrs. Gust works with each child's classroom teacher/teachers to develop individual learning plans. Those plans may include using strategies including independent study, small group instruction, individual scoring rubrics, and alternative units or assessments. Classroom enrichment through Junior Great Books groups in the elementary school, an advanced literature study group taught by Mrs. Gust in sixth grade, and single subject acceleration in grades 7th and 8th may be recommended. Cluster grouping may also be used to place students. In addition, qualifying students are invited to take the ACT Explore or ACT test in the winter through the Midwest Academic Talent Search at Douglas Elementary or Saugatuck High School. SPS 7th and 8th grade students with qualifying ACT scores may choose to participate in the PATH program in Language Arts or Math at Hope College. 
 
Outside of the classroom, enrichment opportunities including academic and leadership clubs, competitions, book clubs for 6th - 9th grade students, and summer programs are recommended for high ability students. Mrs. Gust works with parents to find the best fit for each child.