Advanced and Gifted Learning
Advanced and Gifted Learning Coordinator
Saycha Basken
Assistant Academic Administrator, Special Programs
4721 Dale-Curtin Drive
McFarland, WI 53558
sbasken@k12.com
608.838.9482 x. 7977
At the Wisconsin Virtual Academies, we know that education is not one-size-fits-all. Our mission is to provide an equitable education to all students through self-directed, personalized learning—no matter where they are, who they are, or what they need. We recognize that our diverse student population includes students with exceptional abilities. These students have a need for educational services that are consistent with their ability levels and learning characteristics such as thinking abstractly, having the ability to study a topic in depth, and learning at an accelerated pace. Our schools are committed to engaging students with a comprehensive curriculum and offering flexible academic pathways to accommodate diverse learners.
In our schools, students identified as having exceptional skills in one or more areas are referred to as Advanced or Gifted Learners. Advanced and Gifted Learners perform at or demonstrate the potential to perform at a high level of accomplishment when compared to others of the same age, experience, and/or environment.
Advanced Learners:
- Demonstrate above average skills in one or more academic area(s).
- Learn quickly and generally progress at faster pace than same-age peers.
- Needs may be met through grade-level enrichment, curriculum-compacting, or single-subject acceleration.
Gifted Learners:
- Exhibit remarkably high capabilities in an intellectual, creative, or artistic area; or possess an unusual capacity for leadership.
- Excel academically and are often supported through subject-acceleration or full grade advancement.