SHERBURNE – During a Sherburne-Earlville Board of Education meeting held last Monday, a presentation was given on progress made over the past year in transitioning the school’s Talented and Gifted program (TAG) into a more inclusive course of study.
Prior to this school year, TAG targeted only a select portion of the student body. Last year, however, the board requested that Jonathan Sherry, the school’s TAG teacher, revise the program to reach a greater quantity of the district’s students. Since then, Sherry has been providing enrichment and “pushing” into classrooms. By visiting classrooms and supplementing the course material with knowledge outside the parameters of the state department of education’s standards, enrichment has supplied students with a more comprehensive context for their lessons.
Some of the issues taught include an analysis of the 2012 United States presidential election, as well as a contrast of Chinese and American cultures.
“Sherburne-Earlville’s Talented and Gifted Program is evolving toward a Schoolwide Enrichment Model, as developed by leading gifted education visionary, Joseph Renzulli,” said Sherry. “The Schoolwide Enrichment Model aims to intellectually and creatively enrich the academic experience for all learners. The fundamental argument is that a rising tide lifts all ships. S-E remains committed to engaging the mind and imagination of all students in unique and relevant ways.”
One of the parents present during last week’s meeting voiced her concern that – following state guidelines – her children are going to be taught to the test, with less of a focus on more substantial learning. Further concern was raised over not being able to hit all classes with enrichment.
In response, school board members pointed out that only one Mr. Sherry is available and the program is limited to what the school’s general funds can provide.
“It’s a tough area,” said BOE President Thomas Morris, referring to the limitations imposed by funding. “If he [Sherry] can affect more students though, it could improve the overall culture of the school.”
