Good news for our G/T programs

All,

The experts will tell you that giftedness is not a middle-class phenomenon, but it is clear in our own schools that socioeconomic status is highly correlated with gifted and talented identification. This is in part likely because our program relies on referrals by teachers and parents to suggest students be screened for giftedness.

This fact puts our G/T programs at risk. There is the impression of elitism that can arise, eroding support for programming among the general public. There have been lawsuits in some districts over minority representation in gifted classes. And, if the program is not consistent with established best practices, it undermines parent, teacher, and public confidence in the administration of the program.

Therefore, I am pleased that our parish is implementing a universal testing to identify student candidates for full gifted screening. This is a recommended practice, given that the screening is accurate, unbiased, and administered at the appropriate age.

My only information comes from a brief conversation with the director of special education services, but the parish apparently plans to administer a widely accepted screening test to every second-grader in parish public schools. Second grade is considered an appropriate age based on published research.

If this practice helps find more students who can benefit from gifted services, this will strengthen the parish gifted program and benefit all our kids.