What do you mean by "capable, motivated students?"
We use the term "capable, motivated students" to describe children who bring passionate interests and above-the-norm knowledge to particular domains and are motivated to learn more in those domains or to explore new areas in a safe learning environment.
Does my child have to be identified as TAG (Talented and Gifted) to take Education Soaring classes?
No. Education Soaring students do not have to be formally identified as gifted for a variety of reasons. Many schools do not identify children for gifted and talented programs until the third grade. Some children have dual exceptionalities that prevent them from being identified as gifted. Lower scores in one area of a test can cancel out higher scores in another resulting in a non-gifted full-scale score. Some children cannot be accurately tested due to the fact that they are limited English speakers. And many homeschooled children are never formally tested for giftedness. Finally, intelligence tests are not infallible. We have worked with many children who have not met gifted benchmarks on standardized tests but who still function at high levels in various domains.
May children who live outside of the Portland area attend classes?
Absolutely. Education Soaring classes are available to children from all areas. Children from many areas of Oregon as well as from Washington, California, Utah, Arizona, Wyoming and Florida have attended or are planning to attend the Education Soaring Summer Program.
We live in Seattle. Do you know of a similar program here?
We are not aware of any. Education Soaring was developed because a comparable, affordable program could not be found.
Do you provide services for high school students or educational planning services for parents whose children who are not gifted, but need accommodations at school?
Yes. Please call 503.255.SOAR for more information.
Why is Education Soaring such a great program for gifted children?
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Our teachers understand the characteristics and needs of gifted children and teach accordingly. Characteristics such as intensity and perfectionism can be viewed as problematic in mainstream educational settings. Such characteristics are valued in Education Soaring classes.
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We match students with courses, teachers, and peers to ensure appropriate instruction and social opportunities.
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Our courses emphasize sophisticated, relevant, high-interest content.
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We provide a private school atmosphere for students who attend public school. Student-to-teacher ratios range from 5-1 to 10-1.
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Our teachers serve as educational advocates for students whose strengths they come to know well over time.
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We enjoy broad-based support as evidenced by our Executive Board.
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We have developed an extensive network of educational resources and connections that families can access when needed.
Do you provide scholarships for students to attend Education Soaring classes?
We provide limited financial aid under special circumstances. Please call 503.255.SOAR for information.
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