Gifted and Talented (GT) Program

Identified GT students are served through group and individualized instruction in the classroom as well as through special programs. These special programs include extensions of the classroom, programming, accelerated pacing, enrichment activities, specially designed courses, Pre-AP, Honors and AP classes, dual credit/dual enrollment coursework, grouping with GT peers, and exams for acceleration. All students who have previously been identified gifted by Lake Travis ISD are admitted into the program. Teachers, parents, or students may nominate students for the program. Nominated students will have the option to participate in an assessment to determine eligibility for the program according to district guidelines. In order for students to remain active in the GT Program, they must participate in Honors, Pre-AP, AP or Dual Credit Coursework. Students who do not participate in any of these courses will receive a letter noting that they are choosing to “furlough” those requirements for a year. If a student furloughs for more than one year, they are considered inactive and may be exited from the program.

Gifted and Talented (GT) Graduation Recognition

A student identified as Gifted and Talented is eligible to receive special GT recognition if FOUR of the following criteria are met during his/her high school career. This recognition occurs at the Honors Ceremony and in the Graduation Program. The student must complete the required criteria and submit the appropriate form to his/her counselor by May 1st of his/her senior year.

• A student may satisfy THREE of the criteria for GT graduation recognition by taking AP classes, and making a final, unweighted grade of 80 or higher and/or passing the AP exam with at least a score of 3.

• The fourth MUST be satisfied with one of the following: (students may not repeat any of these as part of their 4 criteria, i.e., two 2^nd place finishes at the regional level = 1 criteria)

• Completion of an advanced GT independent study, either through the ISM course or as an independent study outside of school hours.

• National Merit Scholar – Semifinalist, Commended, National Hispanic

• Publication in an approved nationally or state recognized journal or magazine (can be a print article, photo, or art publication). No Internet publication will be accepted.

• Regional placement (1^st – 6^th) in U.I.L., school-based competition in academics, arts, athletics, band,

cheer, choir, dance, DECA, forensics (speech & debate), HOSA, orchestra, theater or VASE

Seniors who are in year one of a GT furlough and meet the above criteria will be eligible for recognition. Seniors who are in year two of a GT furlough are considered inactive and will not qualify for the GT recognition.