Elementary Highly Capable Program
Overview
Students who perform or show potential for performing at significantly advanced academic levels when compared to their peers may benefit from receiving highly capable services. The highly capable program fosters academic excellence through a variety of instructional strategies based on student needs and learning opportunities. These strategies may include differentiation, project-based learning and learning opportunities around critical, creative and evaluative thinking.
Contacts
highlycapable@sno.wednet.edu
360-563-7284
Quick Links
Highly Capable Referral Informationcommonly requested forms
Referral packets are available under the Commonly Requested Forms webpage under the Teaching and Learning Services section.
Elementary Highly Capable Services
Grades K-6: Classroom-based
Students identified for classroom-based services will have enhanced learning and acceleration opportunities supporting Math and/or Literacy within their grade level general education classroom. In addition to grade level core curriculum, challenging learning opportunities may include cluster grouping, pre-assessment, open ended questioning strategies, compacting of the curriculum, supplemental materials, independent study, flexible and interest grouping, extension options and problem solving.
Grades 4-6: Self-contained
Students identified for self-contained services are offered placement in a highly capable classroom. These full-time classrooms serve students in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students in both Math and Literacy. This service includes grade level acceleration, compacted curriculum, and emphasizes opportunities for abstract thinking, complexity and depth. There are opportunities for students to make independent choices when appropriate in content, process and product.
Universal Screening Process
All students in grades 2 and 6 will be universally screened for Highly Capable (HiCap) services. If your student currently receives HiCap services in Snohomish SD, participation in the HiCap screening process will not result in the ending or removal from receiving services.
Annual Referral Process for Elementary Highly Capable Services
Students in grades kindergarten through 5th grade can be referred for elementary highly capable services. For the 2026-2027 school year, the referral window for all K-5 students is October 19- November 20, 2026. Students already identified for Highly Capable services with Snohomish School District do not need to go through this process.
Referral information and form will be posted through ParentSquare in addition to hardcopies available at schools and electronic versions below. Forms will be available on October 19, 2026.