Public school gifted programs are widespread across the United States, specifically tailored to meet the educational needs of gifted students. These programs are crafted to offer enriched learning experiences that prioritize fairness and inclusivity, presenting economical alternatives to private schooling. In this article, we will debunk misconceptions surrounding giftedness, which encompasses a broad spectrum of abilities beyond traditional academic achievements. Additionally, we’ll explore the distinctive features of gifted programs across different states, focusing on elementary schools.

 

3 Common Educational Choices for Academically Advanced Children

 

When it comes to early education for kids with advanced academic progress, parents face several choices. Here’s an overview of the 3 common options, focusing on the advantages and disadvantages of each.

 

Educational Choice	Pros	Cons
Private Schools with Higher Academic Standards	Advanced curriculum, favorable student-teacher ratio	High tuition fees
Public School Early Entry	Accelerated curriculum, low tuition costs	Significant social challenges, limited availability by state policies
Public School Gifted Programs	Emphasis on equity and diverse needs, low tuition costs	Possible lack of academic depth, quality depends on funding and administration

 

Public school gifted programs emerge as a compelling choice for many families. These programs prioritize equity and cater to diverse educational needs, offering specialized instruction without the high tuition fees associated with private schools. They are more widely accessible across various regions, providing an accelerated curriculum tailored to gifted students.

 

Defining Giftedness

 

The National Association for Gifted Children defines gifted individuals as “Students with gifts and talents perform—or have the capability to perform—at higher levels compared to others of the same age, experience, and environment in one or more domains. They require modification(s) to their educational experience(s) to learn and realize their potential. “

 

In essence, giftedness is characterized by two key aspects: Aptitude and Competence

 

Aspect	Description	Assessment Methods
Aptitude	The potential for reasoning and learning	Cognitive Ability Tests: CogAT, NNAT, OLASAT
Competence	Demonstrated performance in one or more fields	Achievement Tests: MAP, ITBS

 

Debunking 3 Misconceptions About Giftedness

 

Understanding what it means to be gifted often comes with misconceptions that can limit our perception of these exceptional individuals. Here, we explore and dispel three common misunderstandings:

 

Misconception 1: Giftedness Equals Academic Achievement

 

One of the most common misconceptions about giftedness is that it exclusively emphasizes academic success. While academic excellence is important, giftedness encompasses a much broader spectrum of abilities. Traits such as affective processing, global awareness, effective communication, and executive functioning are equally crucial in identifying gifted individuals and nurturing their potential across various domains.

 

 

Misconception 2: Giftedness Equals High IQ

 

Another misconception equates giftedness with high IQ. However, cognitive ability tests used to assess giftedness, such as CogAT, are distinct from traditional IQ tests. These tests aim to evaluate specific cognitive abilities, learning potential, and learning styles rather than measuring overall intelligence comprehensively.

 

Misconception 3: Public School Gifted Programs Focus Only on Academic Achievement

 

Public school gifted programs offer more than just academic challenges. They provide access to specialized resources and foster environments that encourage creativity. For example, in Texas, there are gifted and talented programs with excellent artistic resources. Moreover, public school gifted programs are inclusive, offering opportunities to students who may not conform to traditional expectations. Some schools even have special education programs designed for Twice-Exceptional (2e) kids, who exhibit both exceptional ability and disability. These programs aim to support their unique needs and talents comprehensively.

 

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Comprehensive Review of Public School Gifted Programs in the US

 

New York G&T

 

• Admission: Teacher Recommendation (Requires interview for private-to-public transfer)
• Entry Grade: Kindergarten
• Emphasis: Competence

 

Criteria	Description
Curiosity and Initiative	Proficient at questioning, expressive, detail-oriented
Approaches to Learning	Shows resilience, artistic expression (music, dance, painting, writing), understands reasons and methods
Perceptiveness and Self-Direction	Recognizes, expresses oneself; self-directed, empathetic, leadership qualities

 

Philosophy: Gifted & Talented programs offer accelerated instruction to eligible elementary school students in New York City. All NY students first entering school are screened for, among other things, possible giftedness.

 

Parent Insights (2023-2024 School Year):

 

• Despite a slight decrease in student quality and a slower pace, gifted students remain 1-2 years ahead compared to their peers in public schools at higher grades.
• Teachers continue to be of high quality, ensuring that academic content in reading and mathematics meets expected standards.

 

New Jersey G&T

 

• Admission: Teacher Recommendation
• Entry Grade: Kindergarten (Rolling Admission)
• Emphasis: Aptitude

 

It does not specify which tests to use, but multiple tests are required.

 

Teacher Recommendation	Talent Portfolios	IQ Tests	Cognitive Ability Tests	Achievement Tests
Report Card Recommendation Letter	Competition Results	WISC-V	CogAT OLSAT Woodcock Johnson Tests InView Test	NWEA MAP

 

Philosophy: The purpose of identification is to provide programming and services in which students’ specific learning needs and potential are appropriately addressed and met.

 

Parent Insights (2023-2024 Academic Year):

 

• The coursework is rigorous, even more challenging than some private schools. (Millburn)
• Teachers maintain high expectations due to personalized instruction, boosting students’ confidence in academic progression.
• The school values diversity and emphasizes balance within its G&T programs.

 

Washington HiCap

 

• Admission: Application Tests
• Entry Grade: Kindergarten
• Emphasis: Aptitude and Competence

 

	Cognitive Ability Tests	Achievement Tests
Bellevue	CogAT	Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test
Lake Washington	CogAT	Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test
King (Issaquah)	CogAT/TTCT	Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test
Northshore	NNAT	Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test
Seattle	CogAT/NNAT	NWEA MAP

 

Philosophy: School districts provide instruction, activities, and services that accelerate learning for young learners identified as Highly Capable. Districts must define an educational program for Highly Capable students, and comply with specific program-related provisions that, integrated as a whole across the K–12 continuum, will deliver a comprehensive and equitable education for Highly Capable students.

 

Yearly Funding:

 

• 2023: $33,887,000
• 2022: $32,213,000
• 2021: $31,551,000
• 2020: $30,490,000

 

Parent Insights (2023-2024 Academic Year):

 

• Academic requirements are rigorous and beneficial for college admissions.
• The infrastructure is excellent.
• The campus may overly emphasize diversity. (Bellevue)

 

Texas G/T

 

• Admission: Teacher Recommendation + Application Tests
• Entry Grade: Kindergarten (Rolling Admission)
• Emphasis: Competence

 

	Program	Cognitive Ability Tests	Achievement Tests
Houston (HISD)	Vanguard	CogAT Woodcock Johnson Tests	Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test
Dallas (DISD)	T and G	–	NWEA MAP/TerraNova /STAAR (for higher grades)
Austin (AISD)	G and T	CogAT/NNAT	Parent Application + Teacher Recommendation
Austin (AISD)	Talent Explore	CogAT/NNAT	Parent Application + Teacher Recommendation

 

Philosophy: Demonstrate self-directed learning, thinking, research, and communication skills. Develop innovative products and sophisticated performances that reflect individuality and creativity and are targeted to an audience outside the classroom.

 

Parent Insights (2023-2024 Academic Year):

 

• The school will specially cater to seed players with opportunities to enter four-year Ivy League programs (Austin).
• One iPad per student for life, but lacking practical technology education content (Eanes).

 

Illinois G&T

 

• Admission: Application Tests
• Entry Grade: Kindergarten
• Emphasis: Aptitude and Competence

 

	Program	Cognitive Ability Tests	Achievement Tests
Chicago Public Schools (SEES)	Regional Gifted Center	CogAT	–
Chicago Public Schools (SEES)	Classical Schools	–	NWEA MAP
Naperville 203	G&T is only available for higher grades.	CogAT	NWEA MAP/Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test

 

Philosophy (SEES as an example):

 

Classical School	Regional Gifted Center
– Emphasis on academic abilities and achievement in liberal arts – Students begin approximately one to one and a half years ahead from enrollment (SN: Kindergarten students start directly with first-grade coursework)	– Focus on critical thinking, reasoning, creativity, and problem-solving skills – Accelerated pace starting later, potentially advancing nearly two years

 

Parent Insights (2023-2024 Academic Year):

 

• The teachers are highly professional, with low turnover; many are experienced.
• The G&T program is meticulously designed, with strong consistency and continuity (Grove).

 

Florida Gifted

 

• Admission: Teacher Recommendation + Application Tests
• Emphasis: Aptitude

 

	Program Grade	Cognitive	IQ Tests	Achievement Tests
Broward County	G2	CogAT	DAS®-II WISC®-IV	Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test
Hillsborough County	K	–	KBIT-II WISC®-IV RIAS	Teacher Recommendation
Miami-Dade	Part-Time K Full-Time K	The Williams Scale	Weschler, SB, DAS, KABC	Stanford Achievement Test or Iowa Tests of Basic Skills

 

Philosophy: Florida defines gifted students as students who have superior intellectual development and are capable of high performance.

 

Parent Insights (2023-2024 Academic Year):

 

• Very focused on artistic and musical talents among students, and provides corresponding resources (Sarasoga).
• Varying quality of teaching staff; some teachers cannot provide G&T learning plans.
• Student’s ability for independent learning is crucial.
• Some high schools equipped with G&T have inadequate hardware facilities and food quality.

 

California GATE

 

• Admission: Teacher Recommendation + Application Tests
• Emphasis: Varies by School District

 

	Program Grade	Cognitive Ability Tests
Fremont	G3	NNAT3
Irvine	G4	NNAT OSLAT
Tustin (APL)	G1	Teacher Recommendation
Los Angeles	G2	NNAT/CogAT/OSLAT

 

Diverse Philosophies:

 

Gifted programs in California public schools vary significantly by school district, each with its own unique emphasis and educational philosophy. These programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs and talents of gifted students, offering specialized curriculum and enrichment opportunities that reflect the district’s educational priorities.

 

Summary

 

	Aptitude	Competence
New York G&T		✅
New Jersey G&T	✅
Washington HiCap	✅	✅
Texas G/T		✅
Illinois G&T	✅ Regional Gifted Center	✅ Classical Schools
Florida Gifted	✅
California GATE	Varies by School District	Varies by School District

 

To discover more about the timeline for applying to gifted programs and nurturing your child’s abilities early on, please contact Think Academy’s top teacher Zoe via WeChat at ThinkVIP94 or email her at zoe.xu@thethinkacademy.com.

 

Key Aspects Assessed in Each Test

 

Understanding the nuances of these tests equips parents with the tools to support students effectively, ensuring they receive appropriate educational opportunities and enrichment.

 

IQ Tests

 

Test	Test Content	Test Results
WISC-V	Verbal Comprehension, Visual-Spatial Processing, Fluid Reasoning, Working Memory, Processing Speed	Provides Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) and scores for five primary indices
Stanford-Binet	Fluid Reasoning, Knowledge, Quantitative Reasoning, Visual-Spatial Processing, Working Memory	Provides Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) and scores for five factors
KBIT-II	Vocabulary: Vocabulary Knowledge, Definitions; Analogies: Verbal Analogies, Matrices: Pattern Recognition	Provides scores for Vocabulary, Matrices, and Total IQ
RIAS	Verbal Intelligence, Nonverbal Intelligence, Verbal Memory, Nonverbal Memory	Provides Total IQ score and scores for each index

 

Cognitive Ability Tests

 

Test	Test Content	Test Content	Test Results
CogAT	Cognitive Abilities	Verbal Abilities: Analogies, Sentence Completion, Vocabulary; Quantitative Abilities: Number Analogies, Number Series, Quantitative Relations; Nonverbal Abilities: Figure Analogies, Figure Classification, Figure Series	Standard Scores, Percentile Ranks, Age/Grade Equivalent Scores
NNAT	Cognitive Abilities	Nonverbal Tests: Figure Analogies, Figure Series, Pattern Recognition, Spatial Visualization	Standard Scores, Percentile Ranks
OLSAT	Cognitive Abilities	Verbal Abilities: Analogies, Deductive Reasoning, Vocabulary, Sentence Completion; Nonverbal Abilities: Figural Reasoning, Analogies, Serial Reasoning, Figural Classification	Standard Scores, Percentile Ranks, Age/Grade Equivalent Scores
InView Test	Reasoning Ability	Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Nonverbal (Spatial) Reasoning, Composite (Conceptual) Reasoning	Standard Scores, Percentile Ranks, Age/Grade Equivalent Scores
The Williams Scale	Creativity	Cognitive Dimensions: Includes curiosity, imagination, adventurous spirit, complexity, and independence; Emotional Dimensions: Evaluates emotional aspects of creativity, such as emotional expression, emotional sensitivity, and emotional complexity	Standard Scores, Percentile Ranks
TTCT	Creativity	Fluency: Generates a large number of ideas; Flexibility: Generates diverse and different category ideas; Originality: Generates unique and novel ideas; Elaboration: Refines and extends ideas	Standard Scores, Percentile Ranks
Woodcock Johnson Tests	Cognitive Function	Comprehensive Cognitive Abilities: Oral Language, Visual Matching; Long-Term Memory: Story Recall, Visual-Auditory Learning; Short-Term Memory: Number Sequences, Memory Span; Auditory Processing: Auditory Attention, Phonological Awareness; Visual Processing: Spatial Relations, Figure Ground; Processing Speed: Number Symbol Matching, Symbol Search	Comprehensive Cognitive Function Score + Individual Cognitive Function Scores
DAS	Cognitive Function	Verbal Ability: Vocabulary and Comprehension; Nonverbal Reasoning: Matrix Analogies and Figure Recognition; Spatial Ability: Block Design and Figure Construction; Working Memory: Digit Span and Memory Span; Processing Speed: Symbol Search and Coding	Total Score + Core Cluster Scores

 

Achievement Tests

 

Test	Test Content	Features
NWEA MAP	Reading, Mathematics, Language Usage, Science	Adaptive, can be taken every semester
Iowa Assessments and ITBS Test	Reading, Language Usage, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Vocabulary	Standardized testing, national percentile rankings, comprehensive assessment
TerraNova	Reading, Language Usage, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Vocabulary	Comprehensive assessment

 

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