The Challenge Program is implemented by Susan Pivovarnik for students in grades three to six. Sessions are conducted once a week and are thirty to thirty-five minutes in length. Selection of students for enrollment is made on the basis of previous grades, formal test scores, teacher recommendation, classroom performance, and previous performance in the Challenge Program. Ability to grasp new concepts readily and to complete assignments are also considered so that academic performance is not compromised by time spent out of the classroom.
The goal of the program is to challenge academically talented students by providing an opportunity to develop, expand, and practice critical thinking skills. Targeted thinking skills include: analysis, synthesis, problem-solving, strategies, elaborative thinking, and creative thinking skills.
