Student-directed, needs-based exploration,
enrichment, extension and acceleration
The COMPASS Program in MSAD 68 is primarily an inclusion program designed to support students who may benefit from learning activities that involve critical and creative thinking, sophisticated connections, and challenging work. A student who is identified will be encouraged to work on the Exceeds pieces of classroom assessments, may be encouraged and supported in reading more difficult text, and may be given extension activities. In addition to classroom work, students will be encouraged to participate in enrichment activities, such as Math Team and Science Robotics.
The Maine Educational Assessment (MEAs) and Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) are reviewed as a preliminary screening practice.
Students who score Exceeds on the MEAs and/or on the 95 percentile or higher on the MAP assessments are on a list to be considered further for inclusion in COMPASS.
Following that, class checklists are given to the classroom teachers. These checklists contain characteristics that are often associated with children who are considered gifted and talented. The students who scored well on the checklists compared to other students in the classroom are identified.
Any student who meets any two of three criteria (scored Exceeds, the 95 percentile or higher on the MAP assessments and/or was identified by the classroom teacher as a student who displays many of the characteristics of gifted and talented students) has reached the second stage of the screening process. Parents, staff, and the COMPASS Coordinator, Michele Janes, meet and discuss the student's identification as a COMPASS student.
An after-school enrichment component is provided after the first trimester for the grades 3-6 students. Tom Evans, the elementary guidance counselor, and the COMPASS Coordinator offer group and individual activities. There are activities designed to provide problem-solving opportunities, group work, and enrichment. The COMPASS Coordinator meets with the middle school COMPASS students to work on areas of need and provide support and advocacy.
Phone: (207) 564-2105
Email: mjanes@sad68.org