Advanced Learning Plans
An Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) is--in short--an educational plan to guide a gifted student in his/her path of learning. The concept should support the student in what he/she wants to learn, how he/she wants to learn it, and what may actually present a challenge and spark excited, engaged learning to the gifted student.
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In an ideal scenario, the school GT Coordinator works with the identified student, parents, and classroom teachers to develop the ALP.
In an ALP required?
According to the Colorado Department of Education, and the Gifted Office:
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The Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) is a legal document [22-20-R-12.00, C.R.S.] outlining programming for identified gifted students and is used as a guide for educational planning and decision-making. The Exceptional Children’s Educational Act states that there will be ALP content and procedures set in Rule for statewide implementation; and that goals in the ALP are standards-based. Sections 12.02(2)(f) – 12.02(2)(g)(vi) of the Rules clarify ALP content, procedures and responsibilities.
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Yes, an ALP is a required document for all students who have been identified as gifted. It is encouraged for students who have been placed in the talent pool, but common practice in Sterling Schools.
What should be in the ALP?
An ALP should outline what a student has been identified as gifted in, as well as a basic overview of what evidence or history leads to that determination. It should include a date of writing, team members (teachers, student, GT Coordinator) involved in the process, and at least one academic goal and one affective goal. It should also contain evidence of parent/family engagement and progress monitoring of the goal(s). At the end of each school year, an ALP should have a final review for whether goal(s) were met, and what next steps will be for the following year.
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There are many platforms that can be used to develop the ALP. Sterling Re-1 Valley Schools use Alpine Achievement to develop, write, and store the ALP for each student. For guidance from CDE on the recommendations put forth and trained in one-day workshops to GT Coordinators, please click here.
What if my student does not have an ALP?
Each school is responsible for writing, monitoring, and maintaining the ALPs for the students in their building. However, if an ALP has not been written, parents or other family members are encouraged to approach the school with some positive input and ideas for what they would like to see their child accomplish, find challenge in, or try this school year as it may relate to their area of identification. Please contact your school GT Coordinator for more questions on your student's Advanced Learning Plan.
