The Ferndale School District is seeking members to join our Highly Capable Learner Task Force for the 2025–2026 school year. This group will engage in the next phase of our multi-year effort to build equitable, effective services for our highly capable learners at the elementary and middle school levels. 

We are seeking a diverse advisory team that represents the voices and experiences of our Ferndale community, including families, educators, and staff committed to ensuring every learner is challenged and supported. 

Purpose of the Task Force (Phase 2): 

During the 2025–2026 school year, the task force will:  

• Review and refine the existing program to better meet the academic and social-emotional needs of highly capable students. 

• Develop a tiered continuum of services to support identified learners across all grade levels. 

• Lay the foundation for the district’s long-term compliance with state regulations and the development of equitable, sustainable K–8 services. 

This work will build upon the success of last year’s advisory, which developed an equitable, data-driven process for universal screening and identification of highly capable students. Phase 2 will extend that progress, focusing on how services can best meet the needs of identified learners. 

This phased approach allows the district to remain cautious and deliberate, ensuring that program design and implementation align with community input, legal requirements, and district goals. 

Responsibilities of Task Force Members: 

• Attend and actively participate in meetings. 

• Review relevant policies, research, legal requirements, and district practices. 

• Provide input and recommendations for identification processes and program design. 

• Represent and communicate with stakeholder groups. 

• Ensure alignment with district goals and state requirements. 

Meeting Dates: All meetings will be held from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at Mountain View conference room.  

• December 17, 2025 

• January 7, 2026 

• February 11, 2026 

• March 4, 2026 

• March 18, 2026 

• April 15, 2026 

• April 29, 2026 

• May 20, 2026 

To apply for consideration to serve on the Highly Capable Program Task Force, please click use this link to complete the application. All applications must be submitted by November 14.  Those selected to participate will be notified by November 21.