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Learning In Schools

The goal of the Beaverton School District is to “increase academic achievement districtwide with a special emphasis on mathematics and literacy gains for each student.”

The intent is to give every student the skills to succeed in challenging courses, meet academic standards, graduate from high school and be fully prepared for a range of post-secondary education and vocational options.

The Beaverton School District has a comprehensive accountability plan to ensure yearly progress toward this goal, and these efforts are synchronized with accountability standards set by state assessments and the federal No Child Left Behind Act.

Each District staff member strives to teach students how to think analytically and creatively, to communicate effectively, solve problems and to achieve their highest academic potential. Whether students are reading, writing, completing a science experiment or creating a piece of art, they are encouraged to go beyond the bounds of their subject and critically analyze and evaluate their work.

All students are supported as they explore their interests and reach beyond their current level of work. Educators use research-based teaching methods to spur student interest and support student learning inside and outside the classroom.

• Elementary School Beaverton elementary school curriculum focuses on helping each student build a strong academic foundation -- with an emphasis on literacy -- as well as fostering an enthusiasm for learning. Elementary students receive a well-rounded education in language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, health and safety, art, music and physical education. In addition, teachers integrate the use of technology and various research methods into the curriculum. School staff members also work to nurture students in their personal and social development. Staff work to create a safe, collaborative learning environment that respects and values cultural differences. Learning options also are available at the elementary level in Beaverton, including K-8 programs and Spanish language immersion programs located at some schools.

• Middle School The District’s middle school program is designed to continue to build students’ academic skills, as well as prepare them for the challenges they will face in high school. Beaverton middle schools have rigorous academic programs, where students continue to study the core subjects, but also begin to enrich their educational experiences with elective studies in special interest areas. Middle school staff focus on developing a supportive school climate that encourages intellectual, creative, social and emotional growth. In an effort to increase academic rigor and provide options for a variety of learning styles, Beaverton also offers several learning options programs, including Rachel Carson Environmental Science Program, Summa (for high-achieving students) and the Arts and Communication Magnet Academy.

• High School High school is a time of exploration and intense preparation for the future. The focus at this level is on preparing each student for the challenges of further study and employment. High schools offer students a rigorous core academic program, including honors, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate course options, as well as a wide variety of elective courses ranging from marketing to oceanography to video production. Recognizing that each student has specific needs, the District has developed several options for its high school students. Students can choose from a variety of educational settings that include traditional high schools, magnet programs and an alternative high school program. The District offers several learning option programs for students, including Arts and Communication Magnet Academy, Science and Technology, and more. Outside of the classroom, District high school students participate in numerous extracurricular activities including sports, music, theater, speech and debate, leadership activities and community service projects.

• Special Education Special education services are available at each school in the Beaverton School District to serve students who have been identified as eligible for special education services. Eligible students must meet federal and state eligibility requirements as having a disability in at least one of 11 handicapping condition categories. A written Individual Education Plan (IEP) for each eligible student is prepared that addresses the student's unique educational needs. A team of educators and the parent(s) develop the IEP. The IEP team also determines the appropriate educational placement for the student. If you believe a child may be eligible for and in need of special education services, please contact the school office where the child attends. The Northwest Regional Education Service District (NWRESD) provides services to children ages birth-5. Please contact the NWRESD at (503) 614-1446. For further information please contact your child's school, the District Special Education Office at (503) 591-4365, or the District's website at www.beaverton.k12.or.us. Click on the Instruction link, then on special education.

• Talented and Gifted Students The District is committed not only to its strong core curriculum, but also to the special needs of its talented and gifted students. Beaverton’s programs for gifted learners work to meet student’s differentiated instructional needs within the classroom. Teachers are the primary providers of instruction for identified talented and gifted students. At the middle school level, the District also offers Summa, a special program for the highest achieving students.

• English Language Learners The English Language Learners (ELL) program serves qualified students who speak a language other than English. ELL services are available at all levels, kindergarten through 12th grade. ELL teachers work in collaboration with other teachers to ensure the ELL curriculum helps students to achieve the standards and benchmarks needed for graduation. Achieving English proficiency while maintaining grade level in core subject areas is the focus of the ELL program. ELL Bilingual Welcome Center Bilingual staff members, housed at the ELL Welcome Center, improve communication between parents and their children’s school through translation and interpretive services. The ELL Welcome Center also conducts placement testing and provides local agency referrals, enrollment and orientation of new families, migrant services, first-language tutoring and family literacy programs.