The Neighborhood School Model is a district-wide initiative aimed at modernizing and promoting equity in Advanced Learning. Unlike previous models—in which students receiving advanced learning and highly capable services were separated from their peers—it is based on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and ensures that instruction responds to the diverse needs and learning styles of all students. In this new model, all students receive instruction in their neighborhood schools. This fosters an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

Years of work from multiple task forces highlighted the barriers inherent in the existing system of Highly Capable identification and cohort model of service delivery. With the board adoption of Policy 0030 Ensuring Racial Equity and Academic Excellence (2012), the 2018-19 Advanced Learning Task Force (ALTF) report, and the adoption of the SPS 2019-24 Strategic Plan, the mission was clear, and revisions were articulated in the Board Policy 2190 in 2020-21.

This launched the development of equitable identification practices and a New Model of service delivery. The Neighborhood School Model ensures that all students have access to high-quality learning experiences tailored to their individual needs and strengths. 

Students with an AL or HC designation gain from immersion in diverse classroom settings, collaborating with classmates of various abilities and backgrounds. This inclusive approach not only promotes academic growth but also fosters the development of essential social-emotional skills such as empathy and interdependent learning Additionally, by receiving services within their neighborhood schools, students benefit from easier access to services in their neighborhood and a stronger sense of community.

Students in grades 1-8 are automatically referred through the universal screening process each school year. Universal screening is when SPS educators and the Advanced Learning team review available educational data for every student. 

The screening process helps identify students who may be eligible for advanced learning services. All criteria used this school year is on the Advanced Learning Website. 

To meet the diverse needs of students, teachers differentiate the curriculum, activities, lessons, and learning objectives. This differentiation happens within our district adopted curriculum materials. 

A great example is the elementary math curriculum, enVision, which provides opportunities for challenging activities and activities that promote higher-order thinking skills. There is no separate curriculum for students eligible as Advanced Learner (AL) or Highly Capable (HC); instead, differentiation ensures that all students receive tailored support. 

Collaborative work with Curriculum and Instruction along with Student Services (ML, AL, Sped) has resulted in a growing number of PD opportunities and resources.

Every student has access to differentiation in their core content through UDL and strategies within content. A growing number of educator resources are available that are linked directly to standards, teaching materials, tiered supports, and enrichment strategies.

Middle school students with a highly capable designation take the next course in the math when entering middle school. Families opting to keep their students in their neighborhood school by 5th grade enter Grade 6 math with classroom-based differentiation and UDL.

These students then accelerate in grade 7 with a 7/8 Math course followed by Algebra 1 in grade 8. This progression sets them on a path to pursue calculus by their senior year of high school. For students who entered their pathway school in elementary school take the next course in the math sequence, Math 8.  

UDL provides multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression in instruction. This ensures that learning experiences are accessible to all students, regardless of their individual strengths or challenges, which promotes inclusivity and equitable access to education.

SPS has provided and will continue to provide multiple trainings, engagement, and resources for Educators by integrating SPS digital learning tools with UDL. For more details, please visit My SPS webpage 

By adopting UDL principles and eliminating the need for referrals, the Neighborhood School Model ensures that all students have equal access to Advanced Learning opportunities. Through differentiation and inclusive practices, the model aims to address the diverse needs of students and promote success for every learner, regardless of their background or abilities.