Advanced Learning Program (ALP)

Program Description
D31 believes in having differentiated & rigorous education for all students. The purpose of the Advanced Learning Program (ALP) is to provide students who demonstrate readiness an enriched and accelerated learning program in the areas of English language arts and math. The program is available in grades 4-8. Students qualify for the program via a combination of scores including an achievement score (MAP), an ability score (CogAT) and teacher feedback (SIGS). Click here to view the placement matrices.

What is meant by enrichment?
Enrichment engages students in learning content from the current grade-level standards but goes deeper into the grade-level curriculum. Emphasis is on moving through curriculum horizontally.  For an example in ELA, click here.  For an example in math, click here.

What is meant by acceleration?
Acceleration engages students in learning content from next grade-level standards and typically moves at a faster pace.  Emphasis is on moving through curriculum vertically.  

Program by Grade Level

Program Timeline


Inquiry Process

• A matrix is used to determine whether a student qualifies for placement in ALP.
• If a student doesn’t qualify for ALP per the matrix, parents and teachers have the option to open an inquiry.  
• An inquiry is an individualized problem solving process intended to look at the whole child in order to determine best-fit placement.
• This process may include additional assessment and information gathering.
• Inquiry Form: email Becky Mathison, Asst. Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction at bmathison@district31.net for more information 

ALP Inquiry Calendar
The calendar in the table below outlines the periods of time when inquiries into ALP placement occur.  This is applicable to both teacher and parent inquiries.  The purpose for having a calendar is as follows:

• Set windows allow for a timely and efficient process
• Establishing a cutoff time during the school year preserves curricular pacing
• Exceptions may be made for students who are new to the district

Additional Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Glossary of Terms
• View the May 2022 Advanced Learning Program Informational Meeting Recording
• View the Meeting Slides

Parent Web Resources

• The Center for the Gifted

• Center for Talent Development

• Davidson Institute

• Illinois Association for Gifted Children

• National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)

• NEAG Center for Gifted and Talented Development

• Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted