Throughout the United States, there has been a call for America’s students to master more complex skills and to demonstrate understanding of more sophisticated content. In response, states throughout the country have increased their expectations for student performance. However, while basic competencies are being raised, often there is little done to enhance services for more advanced learners. In order to express its commitment to high level learning opportunities for all students, the Texas State Board of Education has adopted the following as its goal for services for gifted learners:

Students who participate in services designed for gifted students will demonstrate skills in self-directed learning, thinking, research, and communication as evidenced by the development of innovative products and performances that reflect individuality and creativity and are advanced in relation to students of similar age, experience, or environment. High school graduates who have participated in services for gifted students will have produced products and performances of professional quality as part of their program services.

Students are selected for the K-12 program based on their instructional needs. All students in grades Kindergarten, 2nd, and 4th grades are screened each year. Screening is done in the spring of the school year and final selection occurs in the summer. Students in grades 1st, 3rd, and 5-12 are screened on an individual basis as a result of nomination. Screening for will occur once a semester. However, a student may only be tested once a year. Students may be nominated by parents, teachers, counselors, administrators, or by the student himself/herself. A “student profile” will be used to identify students for the program. Criteria to be used on the profile will include: student ability, gifted characteristics identification, creativity test, and cognitive abilities testing (19 TAC 89.1).