Maryland's Largest School District
Students whose motivation, outstanding talent, performance, or potential for performing at high levels of accomplishment receive accelerated and enriched instruction at their local school. Each school has instruction tailored for advanced students and students identified as gifted and talented through the GT identification process.
Literacy Enrichment
Students in grades K-2 have access to literacy enrichment that is designed to deepen foundational reading and writing skills through engaging, elevated learning experiences. Young learners are encouraged to stretch their thinking, explore higher-level books, and build strong critical reasoning early in their education. Enrichment takes place during everyday classroom instruction and Focused Instructional Time (FIT).
Students in grades 3-5 have access to enrichment overlays within their English Language Arts (ELA) block. CKLA Enrichment Overlays expand core reading lessons to challenge high-ability readers with deeper critical thinking and advanced learning opportunities. The overlays are integrated directly into regular classroom instruction and incorporate higher-level questioning and specialized learning prompts without missing essential core content. Students also receive literacy enrichment opportunities during Focused Instructional Time (FIT).
Mathematics Enrichment
Our K-5 Amplify Desmos Math enrichment activities are designed to stretch students’ mathematical thinking and spark curiosity through interactive, problem-based learning. These digital and hands-on extension tasks challenge students to explore math concepts more deeply, test their own ideas, and discover creative ways to solve real-world problems. The extension tasks are integrated directly into everyday lessons and allow advanced learners to analyze patterns, build complex reasoning skills, and collaborate with peers.
Nine regional and four local centers for upper elementary grades (4th and 5th) located throughout the county. Students are selected for the program following a centralized selection process. .
Support is provided in the student's local school or at Barnsley Elementary School.
