2e: Twice-Exceptional Learners

A Brief Overview

The topic of twice-exceptional (2e) learners is complex and potentially applies to a small percentage of gifted students.  2e students have characteristics of both giftedness and disability, which can make identification and support challenging when giftedness masks the disability, the disability masks giftedness, or each 'cancels out ' the other (neither giftedness or disability is recognized).  Because this may result in a lack of diagnosis or misdiagnosis, many experts believe accurate identification of 2e learners requires a comprehensive evaluation with professionals who have an awareness of giftedness in addition to the specific area of potential exceptionality.

A comprehensive evaluation may result in support through either IDEA special education identification or Section 504 accommodation. IDEA recognizes 13 areas of disabilities, and a gifted student may have one or more disabilities in any area. The following four disabilities provide examples of exceptionalities that may coexist with high cognitive abilities: Specific Learning Disabilities (e.g. dysgraphia, dyscalculia, processing disorders), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Other Health Impairments (e.g. ADD, ADHD), Emotional Disturbance (anxiety and mood disorders).  

Part of the 2e population might be covered under Section 504, without the disability rising to a level of IDEA special education identification.  The disability-related needs would be addressed through 504 accommodations to help minimize the impact of the "e" while not necessarily needing the specially designed instruction of an IEP.    

BSD aligns with the NAGC in recognizing giftedness does not preclude the presence of a disability or vice versa, and the district is working to promote the identification of and support for 2e learners in developing strengths while strengthening weaknesses.  Regarding gifted identification for possible twice exceptionality, a body of evidence will be used in coordination with universal screening using pre-approved tests/assessments.