The key features of the EXCEL Program are extended learning opportunities paired with specific research-based instructional strategies in reading, writing, and math.  EXCEL teachers receive specific professional development for implementation of the EXCEL Program and to work closely with students and their families. The Office of Instructional Services (OIS) provides comprehensive training for EXCEL teachers to implement the EXCEL program as a measure for students who have been identified as needing extra assistance in one or more academic areas. OIS provides resources, materials, and stipends for EXCEL teachers and students.

The Grades 4 and 6 EXCEL program contains detailed guidelines that require school staff to correctly identify and recommend students. Recommended students must have been placed on an Academic Improvement Plan prior to EXCEL placement. Students are identified to the program by the end of third or fifth grade. Students referred to EXCEL must attend summer school both at the start and end of the program and receive a specific type and amount of instruction. With the combined efforts of teachers, students, and parents, it is the belief that these students will be able to cover lost ground and accelerate to become proficient learners.

In 2006 the EXCEL program moved from the Senior High Schools to the Middle Level Schools. Grade 7 students are placed on Academic Improvement Plans and are monitored by an EXCEL provided staff person. The guidelines established for identifying and recommending students for EXCEL placement in Grade 8 include: Academic Improvement Plan progress; 80% course completion of the core subjects Reading, Writing, and Mathematics; and 80% course completion of other subjects. An EXCEL provided staff person with job responsibilities of teaching at least one School Success Skills class in addition to individual meetings bi-weekly with each identified EXCEL student, is financially supported from the EXCEL budget. Summer School attendance at a Saint Paul Public School with credit availability is mandatory. Read 180 and FASTT Math are additional academic supports. Students not reaching 80% course completion at the end of Grade 8 go to an alternative high school preparation educational setting sponsored by the ALC.

The structure and configuration of EXCEL programs vary from school to school according to the number of EXCEL students in the school and space constraints. The EXCEL program is not intended as a substitute for special education services, students identified as needing such services will continue to be served through their individualized education program (IEP) and child study team process. Schools may identify existing school staff to support the EXCEL Program or dedicate resources to hire additional teachers for the EXCEL Program.

The district provides training to all EXCEL teachers to enable them to implement the Project for Academic Excellence initiatives of Reader’s Workshop, Writer’s Workshop, Integrated Math, Principles of Learning, and Disciplinary Literacy.  The EXCEL Program is based on the same standards-based instructional benchmarks and strategies as the PAE with opportunity for extra support.  EXCEL teachers are further trained in the implementation and use of frequent assessment and the key components of the EXCEL Program.