High Ability Learners

Millard’s High Ability Learner program, also known as HAL, is designed to meet the needs of students who are identified as high ability learners. High ability learners differ markedly from their peers in abilities, interests, and psychological maturity. They give evidence of high performance capabilities in areas of intellectual capacity and/or specific academic disciplines.

The purpose of the Millard Public Schools High Ability Learner Program is to guarantee continuous, differentiated experiences that challenge and engage learners. This program maximizes the development of students through consistent and research-based practices, responsive instruction, and innovative programming.

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Qualifications & Experiences

Millard students in the 3rd through 8th grades can qualify for HAL in Language Arts, Mathematics, Visual/Spatial and Music. Students qualify in the following ways:

• Elementary Experience: Informal screenings KG-2; Qualifying Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) scores in 2nd-5th grade

• Middle School Experience: Qualifying Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) scores in 6th-8th grade

• High School Experience: Advanced Placement® & International Baccalaureate® options

• Music:  Students are selected by each building to participate in 4th & 5th grade district choir and Orff Orchestra (movement and music) in 5th grade.

K-8 HAL Facilitators and High School Advanced Placement® & International Baccalaureate® teachers are in contact with parents/guardians regarding student performance throughout the school year. Questions?  Please contact your students building HAL Facilitator or Advanced Placement & International Baccalaureate teacher.