Twice-Exceptional Students

PGCPS 6 Pillars of 2e: A Guide to Supporting Twice-Exceptional Learners

For over 35 years, Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) has been a leader in identifying and supporting twice-exceptional (2e) students—children who are both gifted and have learning differences. Through strategic programming and research-based practices, PGCPS ensures that 2e learners are challenged in their areas of strength while receiving support in areas of need.

The 6 Pillars of 2e serve as a guide to help families, educators, and students create a learning experience that celebrates strengths while providing necessary support.

Pillar I - Strength-Based Instruction

We focus on what your child does best! By identifying and nurturing their talents, we help 2e students stay engaged, confident, and motivated to learn.

Pillar II - Alternative Ways to Show Learning

Every child learns differently. We offer multiple ways for students to demonstrate mastery, such as projects, presentations, creative assignments, and technology-based tools, so that challenges don’t limit their success.

Pillar III - Self-Advocacy

We empower 2e students to understand their learning needs and ask for support when necessary. This includes encouraging students to request extra time, breaks, or learning extensions when they need them.

Pillar IV - Self-Regulation

Helping students manage their emotions and behaviors is key to their success. We teach strategies to help 2e learners cope with frustration, build resilience, and stay focused in class.

Pillar V - Self-Efficacy

We celebrate progress, effort, and growth. By focusing on strengths and small successes, we help 2e students build confidence and believe in their ability to achieve their goals.

Pillar VI - Flexible & Inclusive Learning Environments (New!)

We recognize that 2e students thrive in classrooms designed to support both their talents and learning challenges.

Twice-exceptional students have characteristics of both gifted and special needs. Instruction for twice-exceptional students at University Park emphasizes their strengths and talents as well as their preferred learning styles. Classroom teachers provide opportunities for high-level abstract thinking, creativity, and problem solving. Students are provided remedial instruction that incorporates their interests and abilities, thus enhancing their motivation and increasing their willingness to accept academic challenges.

Resources for Gifted Students with Special Learning Needs

Books

Smart Kids with Learning Difficulties by Richard Weinfeld, Linda Barnes-Robinson, Sue Jeweler, and Betty Roffman Shevitz

To Be Gifted and Learning Disabled by Susan Baum and Steven V. Owen

Helping Gifted Children Soar: A Practical Guide for Parents and Teachers by Carol A. Strip and Gretchen Hirsch

Professional Organizations

Council for Exceptional Children

http://cecblog.typepad.com/policy/gifted-and-talented/

Association for the Education of Gifted Underachieving Students

http://www.aegus1.org/

SENG – Supporting Emotional Needs of Gifted Students

http://www.sengifted.org/