Most Saint Paul Public Junior High Schools offer an array of within-grade and across-grade level advanced classes. Challenge classes are open to students identified for Gifted Services in elementary school and to students who want more rigorous coursework. Challenge level courses provide acceleration in areas such as mathematics and science. Challenge courses also offer greater depth and complexity than standard courses in social studies, language arts, and the arts. Teachers differentiate curriculum to meet the needs of their students. Some schools offer mini-courses or Talent Development Academies to offer choices for in-depth studies in specific areas of interest.

Junior high school students have many options to participate in a wide range of academic competitions including National History Day, Math Team, Destination Imagination, Science Olympiad, Geography Bee, and many other competitions and contests.

As students register for junior high school classes, they should indicate their interest in advanced classes. A junior high Gifted/Talented contact teacher and the counselors will consider test records, report cards, teacher recommendations and student initiative, as placement in advanced courses is determined.

For additional information contact:

Linda Sparling
Gifted Services Coach PK-12
(651) 793-5568
linda.lee.sparling@spps.org
or
Ashley Cannaday
Gifted Services Program Manager PK-12
(651) 793-5525
ashley.cannaday@spps.org

Center for Academic Excellence
1001 Johnson Parkway
Saint Paul, MN 55106
(651) 793-5507 (Fax)