What is G/T?
G/T stands for Gifted and Talented, and is an internationally recognized term. Howard County Public Schools uses it as a term to identify class levels, NOT students. Students are not identified as Gifted and Talented; however, they may be enrolled in Gifted and Talented level classes because they have been identified as Advanced Level Learners by County assessments and regular course work.
What are the program goals?
- Accelerate the achievement and performance levels of students who participate in G/T Education Program offerings
- Increase successful participation of underrepresented populations of students in G/T Education Program offerings
- Continue to develop a highly qualified professional staff
- Build a community of G/T Education Program advocates
What are the Elementary G/T Instructional Services
- Mathematics
- Curriculum Extension Units (CEUs)
- Instructional Seminars
How does my child get involved?
There are several opportunities for your child to be involved in the G/T program at DLES. G/T seminars are offered throughout the year and are accessible to all students on Grades 2-5. These programs are designed to provide a variety of advanced learning opportunities, and may change each year. The students may self-select to participate in these opportunities.
Students may have the opportunity to participate in the various Curriculum Extension Units (CEUs) offered throughout the year in grades 1-5. These units provide enriched learning experiences that extend the curriculum. G/T Resource teachers and classroom teachers collaboratively select students to participate in these units after analyzing a variety of criteria; such as: MSA scores, class test scores, instructional levels, classwork, learning behaviors displayed in classes, previous participation in G/T opportunities, and pre-assessments given to assess background knowledge in the unit materials. As these units are an extension of course work, they are treated as a part of the student's regular learning experiences.
4th and 5th grade G/T Math is for students who are designated as advanced learners in Mathematics. In order to be selected for G/T Math, several requirements must be fulfilled. In the primary grades and especially 3rd grade, students should be working at above grade level in Math. In 3rd grade, students will be given the opportunity to take an entrance exam. This exam can be taken only with parent permission, and will be administered during normal school hours. The exam is intended to assess the students aptitude and logical thinking in Math, not simply content knowledge. Students must earn a specific level on the entrance exam to be considered for G/T Math. Once in the program, student progress will be constantly monitored, and an acceptable grade must be maintained to remain in the program.
Students may have the opportunity to participate in the various Curriculum Extension Units (CEUs) offered throughout the year in grades 1-5. These units provide enriched learning experiences that extend the curriculum. G/T Resource teachers and classroom teachers collaboratively select students to participate in these units after analyzing a variety of criteria; such as: MSA scores, class test scores, instructional levels, classwork, learning behaviors displayed in classes, previous participation in G/T opportunities, and pre-assessments given to assess background knowledge in the unit materials. As these units are an extension of course work, they are treated as a part of the student's regular learning experiences.
4th and 5th grade G/T Math is for students who are designated as advanced learners in Mathematics. In order to be selected for G/T Math, several requirements must be fulfilled. In the primary grades and especially 3rd grade, students should be working at above grade level in Math. In 3rd grade, students will be given the opportunity to take an entrance exam. This exam can be taken only with parent permission, and will be administered during normal school hours. The exam is intended to assess the students aptitude and logical thinking in Math, not simply content knowledge. Students must earn a specific level on the entrance exam to be considered for G/T Math. Once in the program, student progress will be constantly monitored, and an acceptable grade must be maintained to remain in the program.
What can I do to increase my student's chances of participating in the G/T program?
There is no magical formula when it comes to education. We all share the common goals of wanting each child to reach their full potential and to receive an education at their appropriate instructional level. When done correctly, supporting your child at home can make a world of difference. In G/T, and the regular classroom, we look for students who are independent thinkers that will see the world as an endless pool of questions to be answered. Help create creative and patient problem solvers by asking questions and having conversations. Questioning is the first step in learning. It may take some time for a child to figure something out, and this is okay; as long as they are willing to continue to think about it. Advanced Level Learners are still students who need to independently work through problems to learn. The best support you can offer is simply understanding and encouragement.
How can I support the G/T Program?
The DLES G/T program is like any other program whereby parental support at home and in school is appreciated. Placing yourself on the G/T Contact List, will provide a quick opportunity for the G/T Resource Teachers to contact you should they need assistance. You may also consider participating at the county level by participating in the G/T Advisory Committee. The G/T Advisory Committee is composed of parents, teachers, and community members from throughout the county who work support the G/T Program in Howard County. Dialogue groups at each level as well as various subcommittees such as gifted education legislation in Maryland report biannually to the steering committee to make recommendations to the G/T Office.
The Parent Academy offers a series of workshops for parents and community members who want to learn more about gifted education. These workshops investigate topics such as the social and emotional needs of advanced-learners. For more information on how you can be an advocate for the G/T Program in Howard County, please click HERE.
The Parent Academy offers a series of workshops for parents and community members who want to learn more about gifted education. These workshops investigate topics such as the social and emotional needs of advanced-learners. For more information on how you can be an advocate for the G/T Program in Howard County, please click HERE.