In Rochester Public Schools, you'll find Advanced Learning Specialists who serve many students across the district. Like most individuals in education, our Advanced Learning Specialists are lifelong learners and educators who think outside the box and challenge our students to engage in deeper learning.
At Rochester Public Schools, our Advanced Learning program helps meet the needs of students who are ready for more challenging content and require experiences beyond the traditional classroom setting. The Advanced Learning program begins in elementary school, where students are first exposed to Primary Education Thinking Skills (PETS) Lessons. Then, students are eligible for Advanced Learning services beginning in 3rd grade. Advanced Learning services are offered to 3rd—to 8th-grade students, and all students in our schools receive benefits from our Advanced Learning Specialists.
What does the Advanced Learning program look like from our teachers' perspectives?
"I love that every day and every class is different. It brings me joy to be enthusiastic about learning, and there is quite a spectrum of activities and learning opportunities for our students," shared Diane Fritcher, Advanced Learning specialist at Washington Elementary and MNSync Online.
In practice, our Advanced Learning specialists provide differentiation, Primary Education Thinking Skills (PETS) lessons, professional development, and support for other teachers in addition to their Advanced Learning classes. You can learn more about these in our first article. Each day looks a little different for them, but the end goal is always the same: providing these services to ensure every learner has their needs met.
"I never have a predetermined outcome of what I want to see in class; I let our students lead the way," said Denise Seabarkrob at Elton Hills and Sunset Terrace Elementary Schools.
A big part of the role of Advanced Learning specialists at all levels, especially the elementary level, is identifying students for the program. This involves not only determining who is eligible for services but also helping our Advanced Learning students find their identities in education and learning.
"We can key into our students' identities as advanced learners and help them flourish in finding that identity. We provide a framework for that development, and students can grow into the role," Diane said.
The skills provided through our Advanced Learning program impact our students significantly and can have a lifelong influence on their learning and careers.
Erica, who serves Franklin Elementary, shared about these long-term benefits, "It's great to see students take something we worked on and then follow that passion. Now, they've taken it to the next level and are pursuing those interests as a career. From humdingers to car engines, our projects allow them to think deeper, develop further, and truly engage them in their learning."
From elementary to high school, our Advanced Learning specialists create an environment for students who need more challenges, critical thinking, reimagination, and creativity. They serve as a special support for both students and staff within our schools.
With the support of the 2024 Ignite Student Learning Referendum, the Advanced Learning program would have 10 years of funding.
Learn more about our Advanced Learning program online.