07 Sep Gifted Educational Programs
Gifted educational programs are designed to meet the needs of gifted learners. These programs can be located in public or private institutions, and they often include classes for gifted students at all grade levels, from preschool to high school.
Gifted educational programs offer hands-on opportunities for gifted students to further their learning and discover their unique talents. They provide specialized instruction in areas such as math, science, humanities, and social studies. The goal of gifted education is to identify and nurture the strengths of each child.
Are there differences between specific gifted and talented programs?
As each child is unique, and especially gifted children, so are the programs that support them. There are national standards for these programs, but the specific focus and requirements can depend on the type of program. It can also depend on the focus of the teacher or administration. In addition, gifted programs can vary in their goals, as some will strive to teach students standards beyond what is at their grade level. Others will provide further depth and breadth of the skills that the child would learn in a regular program. In addition, other programs focus on enhancing the child’s experiences and learning. They do this through developing exposure to material that would not normally be covered in school settings.
How do you qualify for a gifted program?
The requirements for gifted educational programs vary by state and school district. Most require that students be identified as “gifted” before they can be enrolled in the program. This determination is often based on standardized testing including academic, intellectual, and neuropsychological evaluations. Alternatively, it can also be based on report card grades or a nomination from a teacher.
For example, in New York City, the determination for eligibility to the gifted and talented program is a combination of report cards, teacher recommendations, and standardized evaluation.
Can I apply for a gifted and talented program if my child has a disability?
This question holds significant importance as there are often children who exhibit disabilities in certain areas while displaying talent in others. In most gifted and talented programs, there is an encouragement for children with disabilities to apply, particularly if the program receives public funding. The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) makes it illegal to discriminate against individuals with disabilities. However, it is worth noting that the ADA does not encompass disabilities specific to giftedness. For instance, in New York City, nearly all children can apply for gifted programs irrespective of disability, home language, previous schooling, or country of origin.
What is the Purpose of Gifted Education?
Gifted educational programs exhibit varying focuses, yet they all possess common characteristics: they offer challenging academic experiences and equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in an increasingly competitive world. For instance, certain school districts offer programs that cater to academically advanced students. These programs aim to prepare them for higher-level courses in high school or college. These programs, commonly known as ‘gap-year’ programs, allow students to take a year off after high school. During this time, they can still remain eligible for college credit or advanced placement classes.
How can a neuropsychological evaluation help my child?
The purpose of gifted neuropsychological evaluations is to assess a child’s ability to learn and perform in school. This evaluation will determine if there is a discrepancy in intelligence between the child and his/her peers and if there are opportunities for the child to better succeed academically. The evaluation will also determine if there are any learning disabilities, physical disabilities, or other neurological impairments that may be causing delays in the child’s progress, and may be obscuring talents in other areas.
A qualified neuropsychologist is an important part of any educational system, as he/she can provide a wide range of services including:
