Accelerated Learning Procedures (ALPS) was among the first programs for students identified as gifted in the Phoenix metro area. The concept of bringing high ability students from around the district, for enrichment, was a novelty in 1974. Instruction has been by thematic unit and roughly 180 K-8 students have been served on a regular basis. Community-building is stressed as students in ALPS come from all 14 PESD schools.
There has been a significant push for testing PESD students since August 2006. The number of gifted students identified has doubled to 360.
In 2007-2008, the curriculum being studied includes science experimentation, verbal and math challenges using synthesis, analysis and evaluation, nutrition and exercise (yoga), computer keyboarding fluency, presentation preparation and practice, chess, U.S. history, and math strategies through games and LEGO NXT Robotics.
To enhance the learning experience, students in K-2 viewed several theatrical productions during the year at both Childsplay and Phoenix Theatre’s Cookie Company. The students in grades 3-4 will conclude the year with “Time Travelers” and “Life on the Edge” participatory presentations at Arizona’s Grand Canyon. Fifth and sixth graders will be operating Junior Achievement’s Biz Town. They will be entrepreneurs-for-a-day, running businesses in a simulated city. Seventh and eighth grade students will complete their ALPS experience with a trip to Northern Arizona highlighting Meteor Crater, the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest, Canyon de Chelley, the East Rim of the Grand Canyon, Wupatki and the Museum of Northern Arizona.
