Gifted and Talented
Monument Academy's Gifted and Talented Program
At Monument Academy, our approach to gifted services encompasses a diverse range of options, including intimate small-group pull-outs, specialized advanced classes within core subjects, and finely-tuned in-class differentiations. We foster a collaborative environment where the identification of programming requirements is a joint effort involving educators, parents, students, and the gifted and talented facilitator. Furthermore, we maintain an ongoing process of vigilant evaluation to ensure the ongoing efficacy of these strategies.
Giftedness Defined
Giftedness is asynchronous development in which advanced cognitive abilities and heightened intensity combine to create inner experiences and awareness that are qualitatively different from the norm. This asynchrony increases with higher intellectual capacity. The uniqueness of the gifted renders them particularly vulnerable and requires modifications in parenting, teaching and counseling in order for them to develop optimally. (The Columbus Group, 1991).
Meet Erin Hastedt, your dedicated Gifted and Talented Coordinator overseeing both MA West and East campuses. With more than two decades of expertise in the realm of gifted education, a formal GT endorsement, and the unique perspective of being a parent to two highly gifted children, I bring a deeply personalized, individualized, and needs-focused approach to the realm of gifted education.
Throughout my career, I've harnessed a diverse array of strategies to cater to my student's needs, including acceleration, immersive project-based learning, and targeted subject enrichment. As a hands-on educator, I relish the opportunity to engage with my students on a daily or weekly basis, fostering genuine connections that span both time and learning.
My professional journey has equipped me with a wealth of experience in addressing the social-emotional needs of gifted students and adults. If your child encounters challenges, I'm here to lend a supportive hand. Feel free to reach out via email or Parent Square for assistance. Moreover, I value direct, face-to-face interactions and eagerly anticipate meeting parents and students at the start of the year and as required throughout.
Expect a steady stream of informative emails that cover vital topics such as programming updates, social-emotional resources, and ALP (Advanced Learning Plan) development and compliance requirements. Collaboration and open, transparent communication lie at the heart of my approach.
For parents seeking additional support or a deeper understanding of giftedness, I'll regularly share thought-provoking articles, insights about conferences, and pertinent details related to all aspects of gifted education. After all, the more you're informed, the more effectively you can navigate the journey of raising gifted children.
