Advanced Learning
SPS Advanced Learner and Highly Capable Services
At SPS, we are focused on honoring and supporting the brilliance of every student.
We are writing to provide you with an update on the Highly Capable (HC) program in Seattle Public Schools (SPS).
Learn more about Highly Capable ProgramFamily and Community Engagement Sessions: Fall 2025
SPS is committed to ensuring all students have access to meaningful, equitable learning experiences.
As part of this commitment, the district is hosting engagement sessions for families to share their experiences, insights, and ideas about Highly Capable services at SPS. This will also be an opportunity to meet the new Director of Highly Capable Services Dr. Paula Montgomery.
This feedback provided will helps us improve our services to better serve all students, especially those from historically underserved communities.
More details will be shared soon.
Dates are tentative
- September 16, 2025 – Southeast Region
- September 30, 2025 – Southwest Region
- October 7, 2025 – Central Region
- October 14, 2025- Northeast Region
- October 21, 2025 – Northwest Region
- October 28, 2025 – Virtual
- November 8, 2025 – John Stanford Center
Advanced Learning Opportunities in Seattle Public Schools
Advanced Learner (AL) Services for students with AL eligibility are provided in neighborhood schools.
Highly Capable (HC) Services are not going away, they are getting better! To address historical inequity, SPS has changed how we identify Advanced Learners and Highly Capable students. Services for students with HC eligibility are provided in neighborhood schools and regional HC Pathway Schools.
We are committed to honor each student’s strengths while implementing a holistic evaluation of the existing and available data and information.
Transfer Student Eligibility Process
New-to-Seattle students have options regarding transferring into SPS and accessing services.
The goal of the Highly Capable/Racial Equity Services Advisory (HC/RESA) is to advise Seattle Public Schools (SPS) on ways to ensure all SPS students have equitable access to advanced learning services.
Contact Us
Contact us
Customer Care Team
AdvLearn@seattleschools.org
206-252-0130
Fax: 206-252-0131
Mailing Address:
Advanced Learning
M.S. 32-936
P.O. Box 34165
2445 3rd Avenue South
Seattle, WA 98124
About the Advanced Learning Department
The Advanced Learning department works collaboratively with school and district leaders, teachers, students, and families to provide the tools, guidance, supports, and services needed to ensure access and success for every student especially those furthest from educational justice and those in need of Advanced Learning services.
Advanced Learning services provide students the support they need to grow their strengths and work at more complex levels. This includes more challenge within classes, assignments, and activities to help push learning further. Advanced Learning services include services for students found eligible for Highly Capable and Advanced Learners.