SEM Background

The Schoolwide Enrichment model was developed by Dr. Joseph S. Renzulli at the University of Connecticut. School districts in 21 states and Canada have implemented SEM, and Laurel Mountain began its implementation several years ago. The overriding goal of SEM is to provide an enriching education to all students.

For the 2006/2007 school year, we fully implemented SEM by creating a Total Talent Portfolio for each child, enabling each student to participate in enrichment clusters, and further streamlining in-class learning through curriculum modification.

We continued the success of the program during the 2007/2008 school year. In addition to each child participating in an enrichment cluster, there was an enrichment time each Friday, called the E-slot. During the E-slot, every student on campus participated in enrichment activities that ranged from clusters to service projects to E-slot electives. We continued to build each child's Total Talent Portfolio. Laurel Mountain renewed our site-license for Renzulli Learning System, which is an on-line tool to help students learn about their learning styles, interests, and product preferences. Every student grades K-5 completed the Learning Profile on Renzulli Learning Systems. Teachers and students utilized the Renzulli Learning System in the classroom and during the E-slot. At the end of the school year, we had our first Enrichment Showcase that allowed students to share their hard work and accomplishments from enrichment clusters, E-slot activities and Lightbulb projects.