Chris Samis : “Public School Board Gifted Program Expansion Plan”

Ferndale Woods Elementary School in Barrie has recently received new portables in preparation for the approximately 50 students who will be joining the Elementary Congregated Gifted Programming in September. This expansion comes as the Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) aims to provide more opportunities for gifted students in the Barrie area.

Increasing Access to Gifted Programming

Currently, Codrington Public School is the sole provider of the congregational gifted program in Barrie. However, with the addition of a new elementary gifted program at Ferndale Woods in September, more spaces will be available for gifted students in the area. This new program will complement the existing offerings at Codrington and Cookstown Public School.

Growing Demand for Gifted Education

Chris Samis, superintendent of student achievement and special education with the SCDSB, highlighted the increasing interest in gifted programming among parents and students. He noted that while about 50% of screened students apply for the gifted program, the rest choose to participate in gifted programming within their regular classroom setting.

Over the past two years, the SCDSB has expanded its gifted programs, including the addition of a program in Bradford and the recent expansion at Ferndale Woods. These changes reflect the board’s commitment to meeting the needs of gifted students across the region.

Strategic Planning for Program Expansion

When selecting Ferndale Woods as the location for the new program, the SCDSB considered factors such as available space and stable enrolment numbers. The school’s proximity to surrounding neighbourhoods and the potential for growth made it an ideal choice for accommodating the expanded program.

With Grade 4 to Grade 8 students set to benefit from the new program, additional portables will be added to Ferndale Woods to support the increased enrolment.

Transition to Universal Screening

One significant change in the gifted program is the shift from nominations to universal screening. This change aims to ensure all students have equal opportunities to access the program and receive appropriate support based on their individual needs.

By screening every student, the SCDSB can identify not only gifted students but also those who may require additional support. This multi-dimensional approach to screening will help create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Expanding Support for Gifted Students

The new program at Ferndale Woods will cater to elementary-aged students identified as gifted in the southern part of Barrie. This includes students from various neighbourhoods such as Algonquin Ridge, Allandale Heights, and Mapleview Heights, among others.

As of September 2024, the existing elementary gifted program at Codrington Public School will focus on students from northern Barrie and surrounding areas, ensuring greater accessibility to gifted programming for students across the region.

Overall, the expansion of the gifted program at Ferndale Woods Elementary School represents a significant step towards providing enhanced educational opportunities for gifted students in the Barrie area.