Tumwater Highly Capable program served 240 students in 2024-25

The Tumwater School District's Highly Capable program is undergoing significant changes to better support its 240 students from the 2024-25 school year. Misty Hinkle, the program coordinator, shared plans to phase out self-contained classrooms after the 2025-26 school year, transitioning to a cluster classroom model. This model integrates highly capable students into general education settings, providing targeted enrichment opportunities. The district has formed a task force involving parents, teachers, and administrators to review services and ensure equitable identification processes for students. Hinkle highlighted improvements in identifying eligible students, aiming to support a broader range of learners.

Plans include hiring an additional enrichment teacher and enhancing resources for K-5 students in core subjects such as math and English language arts. Professional development for educators will further strengthen capacity for supporting highly capable students. These changes demonstrate the district's commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment.