Gifted Endorsement

Application Checklist

✅ Complete the Endorsement Application Form 

✅ Send your completed application with your Teaching Certificate to Darcie Pritchett at darcie.pritchett@ngresa.org. 

✅ Await course placement and Canvas access (mid-July)

Program of Study

Development: The Gifted Endorsement Program of Study was developed through a collaborative process led by experienced gifted education specialists and RESA instructional staff. The team closely followed the GaPSC Gifted Rule 505-3-.90 , ensuring alignment to required competencies in identification, curriculum design, instructional strategies, and program models. The program of study was created by reviewing the GaPSC rule, identifying necessary content areas, and designing a sequence of four courses to address the standards. The final structure ensures candidates are fully prepared to meet the needs of gifted learners across diverse educational settings.  

Purpose: The purpose of the Gifted Endorsement is to prepare educators to meet the advanced learning needs of gifted and high-ability students through the development of specialized knowledge and instructional expertise. The program, fully aligned to the GPC Gifted Endorsement standards for Rule 505-3-.90, ensures candidates acquire competencies in the identification of gifted learners, differentiated curriculum design, research-based instructional practices, and the creation of supportive and challenging learning environments. Through this preparation, educators are equipped to promote academic excellence and foster the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of gifted students across diverse educational settings.

Click Here to Access the Full Program of Study

Course Sequence

Course 1: Characteristics of the Gifted
This course explores the cognitive, academic, creative, and social-emotional characteristics of gifted learners. Candidates examine the psychological theories of giftedness, factors influencing the development of giftedness across diverse groups, and the unique needs of twice-exceptional learners.  

Course 2: Curriculum for the Gifted
This course examines curriculum design and strategies to challenge and engage gifted learners. It focuses on adapting content, process, product, and learning environments to enhance gifted students' academic experiences. Models like acceleration, enrichment, and interdisciplinary learning will be explored to design rigorous and differentiated curricula.  

Course 3: Methods and Materials for the Gifted
This course focuses on the instructional methods and materials that support the development of gifted learners. Candidates will examine strategies that foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, and learn to select or create materials that are appropriately challenging for gifted students.  

Course 4: Identification and Assessment

This course addresses the identification and assessment processes for gifted learners, focusing on best practices and ethical considerations. Candidates explore multiple forms of assessment, culturally responsive identification strategies, and methods for using assessment data to inform instructional decisions and program development.  

FAQs

Q: How long does the endorsement take?
A: The Gifted Endorsement takes one year to complete. There are 4 courses to complete within the school year.  See the instructor's schedule for exact dates.

Q: Is there a residency or practicum?
A: There is no residency or practicum required, but you will be required to complete a field experience in each course. Field experiences in NGRESA’s endorsement courses are intentionally embedded to bridge theory and practice. Each experience is designed to give candidates authentic opportunities to observe, apply, and reflect on instructional strategies aligned to course outcomes and GaPSC standards. 

Q: Can I take more than one endorsement at a time?

A: You can take more than one endorsement at a time if your principal/supervisor/school district approves you to do so. 

Q: When will I be notified of my acceptance into the program?
A: You will recieve notification by mid-July. 

Contact Information

Nicole Moneyham, Director of Professional Learning, nicole.moneyham@ngresa.org

Darcie Pritchett, Professional Learning Coordinator, darcie.pritchett@ngresa.org