CHOICE Program

• All classes are multi-grade, 6th through 8th; math classes are ability based
• Co-op classes meet daily for teambuilding, portfolio work, and individualized help; the co-op teacher serves as a valuable communication link between student, parents, and all CHOICE teachers
• Students have one semester of science and one semester of social studies taught in 2 hour block classes. Three times per semester, students participate in an all-day field trip directly related to this curriculum

• Alternative assessments including projects, presentations, rubrics, self-assessment, and use of a body of evidence to measure learning
• Students take ownership of their learning by presenting a portfolio of work to teachers and parents throughout the year

CHOICE offers instruction using an inclusion model to deliver support and enrichment services. Teachers design and implement differentiated instruction that helps to meet student’s needs within the mixed ability classroom. They also consult with GT, Special Education and reading specialists for additional support.

TALENTED AND GIFTED

The Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) is implemented for the purpose of providing support for the gifted student. This plan is written in consultation with the teachers, parents and student and is part of the CHOICE goal setting process.  A GT educational advisor consults with the team regularly and as needed by the student or teachers.

LITERACY SUPPORT

Students who are on an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) receive support though their regular Language Arts classes and may receive additional support as well.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

In CHOICE we believe that all students learn best with their peers; therefore, we strive for a full inclusion model used to provide special education services. The case manager and classroom teachers work together to support student needs. The case manager team-teaches some classes, or leads a support group, and consults with all CHOICE teachers on a regular basis. The reality of this focus program is that students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may or may not have direct contact with the case manager during some school weeks due to field trips or a change in schedule.

• Denver-Boulder community serves as an extended classroom for daylong field trips
• Students are required to initiate and participate in community service each year

Examples of CHOICE All Day Academic Integrated Field Trips

• Kutandara Marimba Studio for Zimbabwe immersion
• Wild Animal Sanctuary for habitat study
• Aquarium for Squid Dissection
• Center for Entrepreneurial Development to learn about micro-lending and meet with recent emigre entrepreneurs
• Joyous Chinese Cultural Center to make dumplings and learn Mahjong
• Kilt Farms to learn about Organic farming and compost tea
• African-American History Scavenger Hunt in Five Points.
• NCAR for weather balloon release
• Dinosaur Ridge Geology Hike with experts
• Colorado Supreme Court to learn about Brown vs. Board of Education
• Denver Art Museum as part of an identity study
• Visits to McDonald’s and The Kitchen to learn about our Fast Food Nation
• DCPA to see theatre performances.

…and much more!

• Several longer experiential field trips reinforce the curriculum and challenge students to stretch their comfort zones in a supportive environment
• CHOICE students attend a fall trip at a Colorado wilderness camp which serves as an important part of our community-building process
• During the week-long Spring Trip, students have explored the ruins at Mesa Verde, rock climbed in Moab, fly fished Colorado’s Green River, mountain biked trails throughout the state, and hiked the Tetons in Wyoming