A Thematic Analysis of Florida School District Elementary Acceleration Policies and Practices (Poster 3)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 12:40 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Research on Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent SIG Roundtable Poster Session

Abstract

Florida School district elementary acceleration policies and procedures were examined one decade after the enactment of the Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL) statute. Student Progression Plans, school board policies, and district websites were used to explore the status of acceleration policy in the state, compare the accessibility of information across districts, and identify policy elements that support or pose barriers to access and equity for students with advanced learning needs. Findings indicated strengths and opportunities for improvement including accessibility, service options, protocols, and improved decision-making criteria to avoid barriers and unintended consequences. Key findings, open-access resources for policy enhancement, and future research directions will be presented.

Authors

• Keri M. Guilbault, Johns Hopkins University

• Melanie S. Meyer, Baylor University