What is Giftedness?

The New Jersey Department of Education defines giftedness in N.J.A.C. 6A:8, STANDARDS AND ASSESSMENT.

“Gifted and talented students” means students who possess or demonstrate high levels of ability in one or more content areas when compared to their chronological peers in the local school district and who require modifications of their educational program if they are to achieve in accordance with their capabilities. 

According to the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) “Gifted individuals are those who demonstrate outstanding levels of aptitude (defined as exceptional ability to reason and learn) or competence (documented performance or achievement in top 10% or rarer) in one or more domains."   

The term gifted recognizes exceptionality in aptitude or achievement that requires appropriately differentiated services in order for students to develop to their potential.