Referrals are now being accepted for South Kitsap School District’s Highly Capable Program.

The goal of the program, according to the district, is to provide a learning environment where every highly capable student is provided multiple opportunities to challenge their intellectual, social and emotional growth.

The Washington Administrative Code (WAC) defines highly capable students as students who perform or show potential for performing at significantly advanced academic levels when compared with others of their age, experiences or environments.

Outstanding abilities are seen within students’ general intellectual aptitudes, specific academic abilities and/or creative productivities within a specific domain.

The website for the Highly Capable Program says: “SKSD is committed to offering unique services for highly capable students. We recognize that highly capable students need to work with content and ideas appropriate for their individual abilities, but also recognize the need for highly capable students to explore interests in-depth and spend time with their intellectual peers.

Highly capable students thrive in an educational environment which will increase their involvement and interest in learning.”

The program offers services and tests to help provide for those deemed highly capable.

Students in all grades who are enrolled in the South Kitsap School District are eligible for referral. According to the district, all second-grade students will be administered the first phase of testing in their regular classrooms.

For more information about the program or to make a referral, visit the South Kitsap School District website at www.skitsap.wednet.edu.

The program is listed under “Student Center” then “Highly Capable Services.” Referral forms are available on the website and at each school office. For other questions, contact the Highly Capable Program directly at 874- 7057. The deadline for accepting referrals is Jan. 20.