High Ability at Holy Cross School
Helping Students Go Further
At Holy Cross, we recognize that some students are ready for more. Our High Ability program supports advanced learners with bigger challenges, faster pacing, and meaningful enrichment.
K-5 students participate in a pullout program, while 6-8 enrichment is offered within regular classes.
We offer services from Kindergarten through 8th grade, using a mix of ability-based grouping, curriculum acceleration, and creative learning opportunities to help students grow in confidence and skill.
What is a High Ability Learner?
High-ability students perform (or show potential to perform) well above grade level in one or more areas. They may grasp complex ideas quickly, show unusual depth of understanding, or need less repetition to master new concepts.
These students benefit from learning experiences and group conversations that go beyond grade-level expectations to keep them engaged.
At Holy Cross, we use testing, classroom performance, and teacher input to understand each student’s needs and help them thrive.
How It Works: The Cluster Model
High-ability students are grouped in small clusters (typically 2–3 students) within a standard, mixed-ability classroom. This allows them to stay socially connected while working at an advanced level.
Cluster grouping offers:
Advanced learning in a supportive, inclusive environment
Social comfort by pairing students with similar abilities
More opportunities for challenge without isolation
Daily interaction with peers across ability levels
Students benefit both academically and emotionally — learning at their own pace while still feeling part of the class community.
High Ability Support by Grade Level
Kindergarten – 3rd Grade
Math: Students are grouped by ability and receive leveled instruction
Reading: Advanced readers work with high-level texts and assignments
Writing: Students progress at their own pace, mastering each standard before moving forward and continue going as far as possible.
4th – 5th Grade
Math: 4th graders work on 5th grade standards; 5th graders advance to 6th/7th grade content
Reading: High-ability students read above-grade novels and take on higher-level questions and projects
Writing: Workshop-style instruction with teacher conferencing allows for individualized growth
6th – 8th Grade
Math: Courses include Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Geometry — with high school credit and GPA earned in 8th grade
Language Arts: Students are grouped by ability and interest. Honors English is offered in 7th and 8th grade, with text studies, discussion, and projects that promote deep thinking
Writing: Instruction uses the Patterns of Power and Lucy Calkins models. Regular one-on-one conferences help students grow at their own pace
Electives & Enrichment: Students can choose from options like robotics, advanced art, drama, leadership, and more
Support for Independence: Students benefit from daily Personal Growth Time (PGT) — a built-in block to organize, reflect, and take ownership of learning
How Students Are Identified
We use a combination of assessments, classroom performance, and teacher input to determine readiness for high-ability services. These include:
NWEA, ILearn, and IRead standardized testing, STAR Reading
Class performance
Teacher observation
A universal screener
Questions?
We’re happy to walk you through the process or discuss whether the High Ability program is a good fit for your child. Please contact Karen Geiger, School Principal, at kgeiger@hclc.info.