Jarrell ISD Gifted and Talented (GT) Services provide educational opportunities for students who perform at, or show the potential for performing at, remarkably high levels of accomplishment when compared with others of the same age, experience, or environment.
In alignment with the Texas State Goal for Services for Gifted/Talented Students, the mission of Jarrell ISD GT Services is to provide challenging and enriching learning experiences that develop the unique strengths and talents of identified students. Students are encouraged to think critically, solve complex problems, conduct meaningful research, and create innovative products and performances that reflect their individuality and potential.
Instructional supports may include curricular compacting, differentiated lessons, and participation in projects aligned to the Texas Performance Standards Project (TPSP). In addition, Jarrell ISD is committed to continuously strengthening GT programming through collaboration, innovation, and the ongoing work of the district GT Task Force.
Students who qualify for Gifted and Talented (GT) services at the elementary level receive services through a pull-out program. Identified students work with a GT teacher who provides differentiated instruction designed to challenge advanced learners through critical thinking, creativity, problem solving, and enrichment experiences.
Students who qualify for Gifted and Talented (GT) services at the secondary level receive services through advanced content-area classrooms. These services may include Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and designated elective courses. Campuses work with students to ensure appropriate GT services and advanced learning opportunities are provided.
Jarrell ISD uses a comprehensive identification process to determine eligibility for Gifted and Talented (GT) services. Assessments measure a student’s abilities in comparison to peers of the same age and/or grade level. Ability assessments are designed to identify potential and are intended to be independent of direct classroom instruction or prior content knowledge.
The assessment tools used by Jarrell ISD are nationally recognized, research-based, and supported by strong statistical validity and reliability.
Evaluation Window:
In accordance with state requirements, all kindergarten students are screened, assessed, and identified for GT services prior to March 1 each school year.
For students in all other grade levels, the nomination window is open annually from October 1 through November 30. Assessment and identification processes begin in January and are completed by March 1.
Referral Process:
Students may be nominated for Gifted and Talented services by parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, or other school personnel.
A student is considered officially referred once the required nomination forms have been completed and parent/guardian permission for assessment has been received.
The referral process is conducted annually, with additional opportunities available as needed for students who are new to Jarrell ISD. Following the nomination period, referred students will participate in the evaluation process for possible GT identification.
Jarrell ISD accepts referrals for GT assessment annually during the designated nomination window. For students in grades 1–12, referrals are accepted from October 1 through November 30, with assessment and identification completed by March 1.
Kindergarten students are screened, assessed, and identified each school year prior to March 1, in accordance with state requirements.
Students who are new to Jarrell ISD may also be considered for assessment as needed.
When enrolling in Jarrell ISD, please inform the campus registrar if your child previously received Gifted and Talented (GT) services in another district. You will be asked to provide documentation of prior GT identification, services received, and any assessment data used for placement, including nationally normed test results when available.
These records will be reviewed by the campus selection committee to determine appropriate placement. Based on the review, the student may be placed in comparable GT services or may be recommended for additional assessment if the documentation provided does not meet Jarrell ISD identification criteria.
The Gifted and Talented Parent Advisory Committee (GT PAC) is dedicated to supporting and strengthening Gifted and Talented services in Jarrell ISD. Members help ensure that school programs and practices meet the needs of gifted learners. Parent representatives serve as liaisons between the committee and their campus communities by attending meetings, sharing GT program updates, and providing valuable feedback from families.
WHO IS ON THE GT PAC?
The GT PAC is made up of Jarrell ISD parents who support gifted education and student success. Ideally, each JISD campus will have at least one parent representative. Committee members collaborate with the Jarrell ISD Gifted and Talented Department, campus administrators, and GT teachers to receive updates, ask questions, and share input regarding GT programming.
Parents may self-nominate to serve on the GT Parent Advisory Committee by completing the online application form. Each campus may have up to three parent representatives. If more than three parents apply, representatives will be selected through a lottery process.