Gifted/High Ability Magnet

The Dodson Gifted and High Achieving Magnet is located on the grounds of Dodson Middle School in Rancho Palos Verdes and shares facilities and grade levels (6-8) with that school. The curriculum is enriched and accelerated in all four of the academic disciplines: language arts, social studies, mathematics, and science/health. Magnet students are separated from the resident middle school students in these academic classes. In addition to the four academic areas of study, students take “elective” and physical education courses which are co-mingled with the students of Dodson Middle School.

 

Magnet teachers work together to provide a differentiated curriculum for the students. All academic studies are accelerated to provide a variety of enrichment activities designed to enhance academic achievement. Enrichment activities may include participation in MESA, American Mathematics Competition, Do the Write Thing national essay contest, and the Magnet Showcase.

 

Working within the structure of the middle school curriculum, magnet teachers expand and enrich course offerings to foster the development of critical thinking skills in our students. Students are given the opportunity to make choices, learn time management skills, be self motivated, and work with students who share their academic enthusiasm and curiosity as they investigate new areas of interest. Curricular fieldtrips to venues such as The Getty Center, LACMA, and The Museum of Tolerance provide students with additional opportunities to explore academic disciplines in depth. Additionally, students are provided with the opportunity to participate in extended trips to science camp and Washington D.C. to promote both academic and cultural literacy providing a holistic approach to education.