Academically Talented Applications for 2008-2009 Filing Deadline is 12/20/2007 Selection Process for PEARLS, Academically Talented Program and Century Honors Program Students entering prekindergarten, kindergarten, and grade 1 are individually evaluated using a nationally normed standardized aptitude test (I.Q.). Students entering grades 2 through 12 are evaluated using multiple criteria: a nationally normed standardized test of school ability, the TerraNova or New York State Testing Program, teacher evaluations and report card grades. To Apply: Parents must submit an application. For students entering prekindergarten through grade 8 for the following year, parents MUST apply at the Information Center on or about October 1st through December 20th. Applications are available only at the Information Center. For students entering grades 9 through 12, applications are available at the Information Center and at any Yonkers public school. Applications are due on December 20th and may be submitted to 8th grade guidance counselors, high school guidance counselors, the Information Center or the Gifted Department. Selection Process for Yonkers International Baccalaureate High School Students entering grades 9 through 12 are placed in Yonkers High School based on multiple criteria: parent/student balloting choice, the student’s demonstrated strong academic performance on standardized tests and report card grades. Students are expected to maintain high academic standards, a strong grade point average in core subject areas (English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies), adhere to the District’s Code of Conduct, adhere to the school’s uniform requirement, and comply with the District’s dress code. For further information contact: Pupil Support Services (914) 376-8189

Teaching and Learning
Gifted Programs

Our Gifted Programs provide identified academically talented students with a high quality, appropriate education that meets their special needs. Academically talented children are those who have superior intellectual abilities with the potential to perform at levels that exceed Yonkers academic standards. In addition, they have the potential to use abstract, creative, and productive thinking skills. These self-motivated children are able to sustain high academic performance. Their unique abilities and characteristics require special social and emotional support from family, community, and school to maximize all multiple talents.

The Yonkers Public Schools provides advanced academics programs which ensure a learning continuum and reinforce the strengths, needs, and interests of academically talented students.

The programs also support the unique needs of gifted English Language Learners.

The Yonkers Public Schools has adopted the following guidelines to ensure that the programs and services offered are consistent with the guidelines of New York State.

Elementary Program
Grades Prekindergarten - 5

The PEARLS Program at Hawthorne School is designed to meet the educational needs of gifted students through a program which provides an enriched academic core curriculum with an emphasis on creativity, high-level thinking skills and experiential learning.

Middle School Programs

The Academically Talented Program at Museum and Yonkers Middle Schools and at Hawthorne School develops student potential through an inquiry-based approach to learning using primary sources. Museum involvement and collaboration make it possible for students to do laboratory research and interdisciplinary study in humanities and enhance the thematic program of the schools.

High School Programs

The Century Honors Program is offered at Gorton, Lincoln, Riverside, Roosevelt and Saunders High Schools.

Students attend honors classes in each academic discipline and are expected to take Advanced Placement and college link courses in 11th and 12th grades. At the same time, they are enrolled in the magnet program of their choice. These programs lead to professional and technical careers.

Advanced Placement Program (AP) consists of college level courses and exams made possible by the close cooperation of secondary schools, colleges, and The College Board. These courses are typically taken in the 11th and 12th grades. Students who have performed satisfactorily on AP exams may be granted credit, advanced placement, or both by colleges and universities throughout the world.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB) at Yonkers High School provides students with an opportunity to pursue a liberal arts curriculum, and are prepared to meet rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma requirements. Students who have performed satisfactorily on IB exams may be granted credit, advanced placement, or both by colleges and universities throughout the world.