Challenge Homerooms

The Challenge Program is intended to extend and, at times, accelerate the instructional pace of the standard grade level core curricula. The instructional materials and resources used in the Challenge Homeroom classes are similar to those available for use by teachers and students in other classes across the grade level; however, instruction is planned to enhance opportunities for enrichment of the core content and offer a more rigorous pace of instruction.

The selection of students assigned to the Challenge Homeroom is based on multiple criteria that indicate that the student has the ability to successfully meet the academic rigor and expectations of the program. Placement criteria include the following:

• Advanced level scores on the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) reading and mathematics assessments;
• Advanced level scores on the Dynamic Indicators of Early Literacy Skills (D.I.B.E.L.S);
• Student Profile Information that includes a composite of information addressing achievement, study skills, and work ethic;
• Grades on the Quarterly Progress Report indicating the student’s performance;
• The quality of composition on a self-edited writing sample;
• Teacher recommendation(s);
• PSSA Reading and Math scores.

The progress of students assigned to the Challenge Homeroom is monitored throughout the year to insure that all students continue to experience success in the placement. Each student’s placement in the Challenge Homeroom is reevaluated yearly. Students who were not initially assigned to the program, but consistently demonstrate their ability to meet program expectations may be considered for reassignment to the Challenge Homeroom.