Welcome to REACH, the elementary academic gifted and talented program for Florence One Schools. The mission of REACH is to maximize the potential of gifted and talented students by providing a learning experience that matches the unique characteristics and needs of each student. Our units of study are specifically designed to promote higher-order thinking skills involving analysis, evaluation, and creativity.  Independent research skills, self-expression, collaborative problem solving, public speaking, and hands-on inquiry are the focus of many of our classes. 

Information on the identification and referral process can be found by accessing Florence One's Testing and Assessment webpage. Please contact the school's REACH teacher for more information on the program. 

Students who meet the eligibility criteria for Gifted and Talented services are mandated by the state to attend REACH classes each week. State regulations set a minimum number of minutes of instruction that each student enrolled in a gifted and talented program must receive. Absences are only considered lawful if the student is absent from school.  Absences due to make-up class work, failing grades, punishment, parental request, emotional distress, illness not requiring absence from school, or special events such as parties and field trips are not permitted.

When the parents and qualifying GT students sign the placement form to participate in the REACH program, they agree to abide by the state's mandated attendance policy. Students must diligently attend and participate in the GT program in order to be successful in the GT coursework.

If the school principal foresees a future activity that will occur on the student’s REACH day, the principal may request permission for the student(s) to be excused from REACH.  The written request should be submitted to the REACH Lead Teacher at least two weeks in advance of the event.