Polaris is a small school that follows the Expeditionary Learning model, providing hands-on opportunities rather than separate GT pull-out groups or enrichment classes. Students are encouraged to advocate for differentiated learning in their strengths, supported by small class sizes that allow more individual time with teachers.
Gifted and Talented (GT) Program:
- Coordinator: Tamara Shaffer (tshaffer@psdschools.org, 970-488-8260)
- ALP Communication: Three times yearly—fall (goal-setting), winter (progress report), spring (final progress).
- ALP Process: Goals set in fall, monthly check-ins during “lunch bunch” with the GT Coordinator, year-end evaluations sent home.
Programming & Enrichment for GT Students:
In-school
- Tutoring younger students
- Community volunteer partnerships
- Peer group collaborations across K-12
- Tiered tasks, curriculum compacting, choice-driven projects
Before/After School
- Lego Robotics, Girls Science Club, Running Club, Chess Club, Spanish Club
Affective & Socioemotional Support:
The school counselor and classroom teachers address socioemotional needs as needed. Classroom teachers provide individualized support for GT students across grade levels without additional formal programming.