Leonia Public Schools

ACS Elementary School

Grades K-3
G&T services for our K–3 students are delivered within the general education classroom, where teachers provide purposeful, differentiated instruction to ensure consistent challenge and engagement for all learners. Classroom teachers implement strategies such as flexible grouping, tiered tasks, and targeted enrichment to extend learning beyond grade-level expectations, aligning instruction to students’ readiness, interests, and learning profiles. The G&T Teacher supports this work by collaborating with teachers through co-planning and providing resources to enhance and deepen instruction. This approach nurtures each child’s strengths by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving in meaningful, developmentally appropriate contexts.

Grade 4
In Grade 4, identified students participate in a twice-weekly pull-out program at Anna C. Scot Elementary School, led by the G&T Teacher. Sessions are designed to deepen understanding, strengthen critical and creative thinking, and promote interdisciplinary connections. Instruction emphasizes analysis, synthesis, and higher-order thinking through inquiry-based, hands-on learning. Students engage in problem-solving tasks that build logic and reasoning across content areas, with an advanced math component that challenges them to think deeply, solve complex problems, and apply their learning to real-life situations.

Leonia Middle School

Grades 5
In Grade 5, identified students participate in a twice-weekly pull-out program at Leonia Middle School, engaging in advanced, inquiry-driven learning experiences that promote critical and creative thinking. Students participate in problem-based tasks requiring analysis, evaluation, and solution-oriented thinking, while strengthening reasoning, logic, and independent inquiry. They research and synthesize information to develop multimedia presentations, applying 21st-century skills such as public speaking, effective presentation techniques, and clear communication. Learning experiences emphasize real-world connections and interdisciplinary thinking, with opportunities to deepen understanding and apply skills in meaningful ways.

Grade 6
Grade 6 classes are departmentalized by content area. Placement in accelerated Math classes is determined using a multiple-measures matrix.  In the other content areas, the Grade 6 G&T Program provides differentiated instruction designed to challenge students at their level and extend their learning beyond the grade-level expectations. Through engaging multidisciplinary projects and enrichment experiences, students explore content in greater depth and complexity while developing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. G&T instruction emphasizes rigor, inquiry, and academic growth.

Portfolio Classes: Students in Grades 7 and 8 are identified through an application process for placement in Portfolio English, Social Studies, and Science classes. Multiple measures are used in this identification process.  Approximately 25% of students are enrolled in Portfolio classes.

Math: Math placement in accelerated classes is determined separately using a multiple-measures matrix. Students are identified in Grades 6, 7, and 8.

• Multiple Points of Entry: Students have annual opportunities for reconsideration based on updated assessments and performance data.
• Summer Program Pathway: The SMILE summer program serves as an additional entry point for students seeking eligibility for the accelerated math track.

Clubs: The middle school offers a wide range of interest-based clubs that are available for all students to participate in.

Leonia High School

Grades 9-12: High School programming included Academy Programs and AP courses taught by content area specialists.
Students at the high school level are identified and enrolled in:

• Advanced Placement (AP) courses are based on prior academic performance and prerequisite requirements.
• Students may apply to and enroll in multiple Academy programs, including:
  • Leonia Academy of STEM
  • Leonia High School Marketing and Business Leaders Academy
  • Leonia Humanities Academy
  • Leonia Music and Arts Conservatory
  • Leonia Academy for Hospitality and the Culinary Arts
  • Leonia High School Academy of Vocations and Trades

Academy Programs and Dual Enrollment Opportunities require a formal application. Most academy courses include dual enrollment options, allowing students to earn college credit while gaining specialized knowledge in their chosen fields.

The AP program and academy courses are integral components of Leonia High School’s academic offerings. They provide students with opportunities to engage in rigorous coursework. These programs support post-secondary planning by enabling students to explore potential career pathways and earn college credit while still in high school.

Families of students identified as gifted and talented are consulted and informed of services available to support their child’s learning. Communication is ongoing, and parents are encouraged to participate in conversations about their child’s progress, needs, and experiences in the G&T program.

Identification Process
The district uses a multiple-measure approach to identify students for gifted and talented services, typically reviewing students for eligibility at the end of Grade 3 so that selected students can begin the program in Grade 4. Student identification is determined using a range of qualitative and quantitative data, including:

• District and Standardized Assessment Data
• Academic Performance Indicators
• Teacher Input and Observational Data
• Student Work Samples
• Indicators of Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Task Committment

Appeal Process

Leonia Public Schools uses a comprehensive, multiple-measure approach to identify gifted learners. If a parent/guardian believes their child was not appropriately identified for the Gifted & Talented program, they may submit a written appeal to the building principal. The appeal must include a brief explanation of the reason for the appeal, and any supporting evidence of the child’s need for advanced or modified instruction.

Following submission, a review meeting will be scheduled with the principal and parent/guardian to review the student’s profile and determine next steps.

Gifted & Talented Complaint Procedure

As outlined in N.J.S.A. 18A:35-34 et seq., any individual who believes the district has not followed state regulations for Gifted & Talented education may file a written complaint with the Leonia Board of Education. The Board will review the complaint and provide a written response. If the individual disagrees with the Board’s decision, they may file an appeal with the New Jersey Commissioner of Education through the Office of Controversies and Disputes, following procedures in N.J.S.A. 18A:6-9.

District Policy: 2464 - Gifted and Talented Pupils

District Regulation: 2464 - Gifted and Talented Pupils