Gifted and Talented
Gifted and Talented Program
The Gifted & Talented program is provided for students K-12 who excel in a specific academic field (language arts,social studies, math/science, and/or creative and productive thinking). In order to prepare students for real world experiences and to promote achievement and self-esteem, gifted students at the elementary level are placed in heterogeneous classroom settings and provided with opportunities to work in homogeneous arrangements with other gifted students. At the secondary level, GT students take Honors, Pre-Advanced Placement, Advanced Placement, and Dual Credit courses. The program is designed to develop and expand problem-solving and critical thinking skills, provide creative outlets for expression, and excite curiosity in the quest for knowledge while stimulating a life long desire for learning. A differentiated curriculum inclusive of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills allows for a variety of learning opportunities leading toward the development of advanced level products and performances. Students may be nominated at any time by staff, parents, self, or others. All nominated students will be assessed after receipt of parent permission. Testing may be completed in small group or individual settings at the discretion of the staff. Final selection is determined by a committee of three educators trained in gifted education. Secondary students must be enrolled in an honors, PreAP, AP, or dual credit course to maintain GT status. Identified GT students transferring into the district who have records of comparable testing may be eligible for provisional placement in the program. A selection committee will review the results and observe the student's performance prior to continued placement or recommended exit from the program. Parents or students may appeal any final decision of the selection committee regarding selection for, or removal, from the program. Appeals are first made to the campus selection committee. Subsequent appeals are made to the Chief Academic and Technology Officer at JISD Central Office.