Gifted and Talented Program

What defines a student as gifted or talented?

The state of Texas defines a gifted and talented student as a child or youth who performs at or shows the potential for performing at a remarkably high level of accomplishment when compared to others of the same age, experience or environment, and who:

• Possesses an unusual capacity for leadership, or
• Excels in a specific academic field

Texas Education Code 29.121

What is expected of a gifted/talented student?

The state of Texas goal is:

Students who participate in services desig participate in services ned for gifted students will demonstrate skills in self-directed learning, thinking, research and communication as evidenced by the development of innovative products and performances that reflect individuality and creativity and are advanced in relation to students of similar age, experience or environment. High school graduates who have participated in services for gifted students will have produced products and performances of professional quality as part of their program services.

How are these students served in Zapata CISD?

Zapata ISD provides students identified as gifted and/or talented with a rigorous and differentiated curriculum regardless of the campus they attend. Research has shown that gifted/talented youth need the added challenge that a more advanced curriculum will provide to remain engaged in classwork.

Students who qualify for the Gifted and Talented Program will receive appropriate G/T services at any campus from specially-trained teachers.