Academics
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Recognizing the individuality of our students, PUSD offers a range of tailored academic programs. Instruction is based on learning standards and provides academic advancement or intervention and promotes the highest level of academic achievement for all students. |
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Advanced Placement
PUSD schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses in History, Math, English, Chemistry, Spanish and other subjects. AP classes are rigorous, college-level courses, and students who pass annual tests earn credits or advanced standing recognized by most colleges and universities.
Middle School Academic Scholars
Sixth through eighth grade students who have demonstrated high achievement in one or more areas of academic strength may be eligible to participate in the Middle School Academic Scholars program. Advanced classes use a middle school curriculum that extends the PUSD program of studies in depth and complexity. Advanced classes are available in all middle schools and provide to provide opportunities to build on the individual strengths of each student. To learn more about PUSD's Excellent Middle Schools, visit the Middle Schools, Curriculum and Instruction website.
Gifted & Talented Education
Qualified students who demonstrate an enhanced ability in specific subjects receive tailored instruction by certified GATE elementary and middle school teachers at every campus.
PUSD’s GATE program is designed to meet the unique needs of gifted and talented students and maximize their academic and social development. To ensure positive motivation and the intellectual growth of gifted students, an advanced and rigorous program offers an appropriately differentiated core curriculum. Learn more about the Gifted and Talented Education Department.
English Learners
Students who are learning English as a second language comprise 21.6 percent of PUSD’s enrollment. Ninety percent of the district’s English learners speak Spanish as a first language.
The Pasadena Unified School District is committed to the academic achievement of all children, including English Learners. Students receive the knowledge and skills they will need to compete and thrive in a global economy.
The District’s goal for English Learners is two-fold mastery of grade-level academic content standards
- mastery of the English language
- PUSD’s goal is to have English learners achieve full academic content and language mastery within three to five years.
English learners are served by the Language Assessment and Development Department (LADD).
Special Education
Thirteen percent of PUSD students receive special education services. PUSD utilizes an inclusion model where students with learning, developmental or other disabilities learn side-by-side with other students in mainstream classes. Early intervention is critical for children with special needs, and PUSD offers a number of tailored infant and early childhood services. Special day classes are available for students with moderate to severe disabilities. Learn more about the Special Education Department.
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