What is giftedness?

According to the New Jersey State Legislature, “Gifted and Talented Students” means students who possess or demonstrate high levels of ability in one or more content areas when compared to their chronological peers in the local school district and who require modifications of their educational program if they are to achieve in accordance with their capabilities.”

A gifted student is one who exhibits high cognitive ability, possesses specific academic interest and aptitude, and demonstrates creative thinking and/or production who is not having his or her needs met in the classroom. Cognitive abilities are expressed through quantitative reasoning, spatial reasoning, verbal reasoning, reading ability, and math ability. The New Jersey Department of Education defines giftedness as high levels of ability in “comparison to chronological peers in the local school district,” therefore student eligibility criteria is based on Wyckoff School District norms. 

Gifted students need adjustments or modifications to instruction in order to reach their full potential. It is our responsibility as educators to ensure that all students are continually learning, growing, and being challenged. Often, gifted students need alternate instructional programming in order to meet these needs. Our program provides these students with opportunities to engage in challenging, enriching content and experiences that foster their intellectual growth.