Program Overview

AISD's Gifted & Talented Program (GT) is designed to help meet the needs of  students with high academic/intellectual ability whose needs may not be met by the regular curriculum. The program design is based on the cluster-grouping model, where groups of three or more gifted students are assigned to classroom teachers who have completed the state required gifted education training. The clustering provides opportunities for gifted students to work with other gifted students as well as independently and in flexible groups. The program covers the four core subject areas of language arts, math, science, and social studies. View the AISD program brochure.

Identification as GT

GT Identification is done through a process of nomination, screening, and placement in accordance with the Texas State Plan. GT identification is based upon data collected from several sources, including tests, observation checklists, and student portfolio work samples. Each AISD campus has a GT selection and placement committee that analyzes all of the collected data and recommends placement or non-placement for each student nominated and screened for the gifted program.

Nominations & Screening

To be nominated is the first step in the process of selection. Parents, teachers, and peers may make nominations. If you nominate your child, your child’s teacher(s) will be asked to provide nomination information to supplement your nomination. The nominations process happens twice per school year: in the fall and again in the spring. It is recommended, for younger children especially, to wait until the spring nominations, to help ensure your child's teacher has enough exposure to your child and his/her GT abilities. GT Nomination packages are available through the Kiker Front Office. Students nominated for the GT program will be screened, provided you give permission for testing. The screening phase includes several instruments, including both quantitative and qualitative measures.

Placement

After the decisions are made by the Selection and Placement Committee, you will receive a notice stating whether or not your child was selected for the program this year. You will be asked to sign a permission form for your child to begin participation in the Gifted Program. If your child is not selected for the program, you will have the opportunity to nominate again. Once a child enters the AISD Gifted Program, he/she remains in it throughout all grade levels, unless exited according to stated procedures.

Additional Information and Resources

Visit AISD's webpage on GT

Questions? Contact Kiker's GT Advocates