Unlike other content areas, including special education, Minnesota does not require that educators be licensed in gifted education to teach gifted learners, nor are there any requirements as part of becoming a licensed educator that require educators to take courses in gifted education. Instead, many universities around the state offer a K-12 gifted certificate, and teachers who teach gifted learners may choose to earn that certification.
In addition to becoming a certified gifted educator, there are other options for learning about gifted students. Below are a few quality sources to check out for FREE professional development about gifted learners.
Worth noting: The State of Minnesota provides funding to school districts to
This might just be the easiest way to stay plugged in with all things education. Sign up for these FREE emails from the Minnesota Department of Education.
When you sign up, you can check the box for the topics that you're interested in whether it's info on grants, gifted and talented, gifted education in general, or something else, simply check the box, and you'll be included on the latest info.
Professional learning modules for educators and administrators are available at no cost. These would be a great individual goal and/or PLC focus! While designed for students from rural locations and/or diverse backgrounds, the info is applicable to all gifted learners. Register as a student at here to access the modules.
Courses include:
This free education kit for teachers, program coordinators, and school administrators was developed by the Gifted Education Research, Resource, and Information Centre (GERRIC) with the Australian Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations in 2004.
Modules include info on:
The University of New South Wales' GERRIC is the unit responsible for delivering Gifted Education programs at UNSW School of Education and is at the forefront of gifted education research, learning and teaching in Australia.
There are many ways to get involved locally, at our state level, and at the national level with gifted education. Additionally, these groups have conferences that you may choose to attend (some at minimal cost to you).