Gifted and Talented Program
Lewis Central Schools
Connie Simons and Kristi McMullen
September 17, 2008
257.44 Gifted and talented children defined.
"Gifted and talented
children" are those identified as possessing outstanding
abilities who are capable of high performance. Gifted and
talented children are children who require appropriate instruction
and educational services commensurate with their abilities and
needs beyond those provided by the regular school program.
Gifted and talented children include those
children with demonstrated achievement or potential ability, or
both, in any of the following areas or in combination:
1. General intellectual ability
2. Creative thinking
3. Leadership ability
4. Visual and performing arts
ability
5. Specific ability aptitude
Guidelines
1. Identified gifted students receive
ongoing, differentiated services in the classroom.
2. Building and district staff
development supports differentiated instruction.
3. Talents Facilitators collaborate
with classroom teachers to meet student needs through curricular
modifications.
4. Talents Facilitators also may
provide direct instruction.
Strand of Service
The core of this program model is a shared
responsibility that better meets the unique needs of the gifted
learner. A type and degree of exceptional
ability is determined. Ability as well as opportunity and
interest are areas where accommodations may occur.
INCLUSIVE
All students participate in classroom
instructional activities. Inclusive programming promotes an
enriched learning environment. Exposure to a variety of
experiences piques student interest in specific fields of
study.
The Talents Program sponsors additional
opportunities that are open to all students. Unique abilities
and interest emerging during the Inclusive Strand may lead to
consideration for participation in the Selective Strand.
SELECTIVE
Selective programming addresses the areas
of student strengths, interests, and creativity.
Collaboaration between the classroom teacher and the Talents
Facilitator provides differentiated learning opportunities both
inside and outside the classroom setting. Students with
strengths in leadership and visual and performing arts have
opportunities to participate in district and community productions
and events.
HIGHLY SELECTIVE
Highly selective programming addresses
areas of exceptional academic strengths. The Talents
Facilitator works with the classroom teacher, parent, and student
to develop a differentiated learning plan. The plan may
include classroom modifications as well as direct instruction by a
Talents Facilitator.
