About

Program

The Idea Program provides specialized formal instruction for intellectually gifted students spanning grades 1 through 9.  Elementary level students meet in small groups for approximately 90 minutes a week.  Scheduled classes permit middle and high school students to continue participation in the Idea Program.

Goals

1. To foster individual awareness of and respect for intellectual potential.
2. To emphasize the role of personal responsibility and commitment to the development of potential.
3. To provide challenging opportunities for learning and exchange with intellectual peers.

Objectives

1. To encourage knowledge and understanding of every individual’s strength and limitations.
2. To develop an awareness of the need to relate well to others.
3. To contribute to the development of a positive self-image.
4. To develop divergent and creative thinking skills.
5. To help develop research skills and independent study skills.
6. To experiment with and utilize diverse methods of communicating independent research and ideas.
7. To encourage and develop critical and evaluative thinking skills.
8. To provide an opportunity for exchange, work, and interaction with an intellectual peer group.
9. To develop an understanding of individual perspective in human relations.
10. To support emotional and social growth.
11. To develop an appreciation of and opportunity for flexible, innovative thinking and an understanding of society’s resistance to change and innovation.