Gifted learners are students, children or youth who give evidence of high achievement capability in areas such as intellectual, creative, artistic or leadership capacity or in specific academic fields, and who need services and activities not ordinarily provided by the school in order to fully develop those capabilities.
The Talented and Gifted (TAG) program supports districts and teachers in the service of gifted students as they have a right to an appropriate education—one that recognizes individual differences and needs, both cognitive and affective. Differentiated curriculum should be responsive to individual pace, style, interests and need for complexity. Gifted and talented learners need an environment that encourages and nurtures inquiry, flexibility and divergent thinking.
The Gifted Education Waiver for teachers formerly grandfathered to teach gifted is now available. Without an endorsement or waiver you will not be allowed to teach gifted education after July 2012. You can download the form and send it in to the Bureau of Educational Examiners. Make sure you have all documents and transcripts together when you send it.
Resources for Gifted Learners
Many online resources are available to educators and parents of gifted learners. Northwest AEA has compiled a list of helpful websites to assist educators and parents in serving their talented and gifted learners.
MTSS for Advanced Learners
MTSS is for all students but where do our advanced learners fit into this process?
Iowa’s Department of Education has published the "Advanced Learner MTSS Guide" to assist in the process. This document is invaluable as we consider the needs of all learners. Within the document, you will find resources to support the varying needs of these students.