Eastchester schools propose pilot accelerated‑learning program for grades 2–5, contingent on budget

Dr. Valente, superintendent of the Eastchester Union Free School District, told the school board that the district plans to pilot an Accelerated Learning Program for students in grades 2 through 5 beginning in September and anchored in the elementary WIN (What I Need) period.

The proposal calls for one full‑time teacher, certified in gifted and talented education, to work on a six‑day rotation between Anne Hutchinson (Ann Hutch) and Greenvale elementary schools and to serve up to about 80 students at each school (a maximum of roughly 20 per grade level). Students would attend a 60‑minute pullout during the WIN period for project‑based, interdisciplinary enrichment rather than additional drill in regular classroom subjects.

The district would identify candidates using existing NWEA achievement data and the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT). As presented, students considered for ALP would generally need to score at or above the 90th percentile on NWEA (ELA and/or math) and on the CogAT; the committee retained flexibility to adjust cutoffs if enrollment numbers or needs require it. Parents would have the option to opt out; the committee…