Talent Development

Talent development (TD) refers to the systematic process of recognizing, nurturing, and enhancing students' natural abilities, skills, and potential. Students are provided opportunities, resources, and support to help them grow their academic and intellectual abilities. In addition to developing natural talents, a goal is to move students toward formal identification.

AIG Specialists use data to discover students with advanced abilities using various data sources, such as the Naglieri General Abilities Test (NGAT), classroom observation, demographics, and other standardized assessments. These data sources help to identify students with advanced thinking abilities who may benefit from talent development services. Talent development services are based on need and at the discretion of the AIG Specialist, and groups may change throughout the school year. Talent development does not guarantee placement in the AIG program.

Students may receive services alongside identified AIG students or be part of specialized pull-out groups. These services include personalized instruction in math, reading, and thinking skills that develop their unique talents. Talent development sessions are 30-60 minutes each week.

Guardians are sent permission forms to be signed and return if their child qualifies for this service.  Talent Development is designed to be a flexible program, and as such, a child can move in and out of the program throughout the year.  

The selected students are not formally identified as Academically Intellectually Gifted (AIG). Instead, they are regarded as students who need more rigorous and advanced learning opportunities based on data.