Gifted and Talented Programs
Charles Townes Center Program
Program Model
The Charles Townes Center is a special program within Sterling School that is designed to meet the needs of students who demonstrate exceptional giftedness in aptitude, achievement, and performance. The program serves qualifying students in Grades 3-8 via a special class model. Special classes in the core subjects, as well as in the related arts, are designed to accelerate, extend, and enrich student experiences in the classroom. This model of gifted instruction is supported by the SC Department of Education.
More information about the CTC program is located on the Sterling School Website or you can contact the Charles Townes Center program coordinator, Deborah Foulkes, at 864.355.4477 .
Student Qualification Criteria and Timeline
Gifted and talented educational programs in South Carolina are established by SC Regulation R43-220 and regulated by the SC Department of Education (SDE). The qualification criteria for the Charles Townes Center program mirrors the state's identification process, but it is more rigorous. For more information regarding the qualification process, please see the Charles Townes Center Qualification Criteria and Timeline.
Non-GCS Students - Aptitude Assessment Opportunity
Each October, Greenville County Schools offers the CogAT aptitude assessment for students who reside in Greenville County but are not currently enrolled in a SC public school that offers aptitude testing. If a non-GCS student wishes to be evaluated for SC gifted and talented qualification, including admission to the Charles Townes Center, the student may register to take the CogAT aptitude assessment with Greenville County Schools. Registration for this special testing opportunity is required, and registration links will be posted on the GCS School District and Sterling School websites during September of each school year.