Gifted & Talented
ARKANSAS DEFINITION OF GIFTED AND TALENTED
Gifted and Talented Children and youth are those of high potential or ability, whose learning characteristics and educational needs require qualitatively differentiated educational experiences and/or services. Possession of these talents and gifts, or the potential for their development, will be evidence through an interaction of above average intellectual ability, task commitment, and/or motivation, and creative ability.
The Osceola School District Gifted & Talented Program is committed to enhancing the learning experience of each gifted child through a differentiated educational program. This program recognizes and endeavors t further develop the learner’s creativity, special talents, higher thinking process, and leadership skills.
The gifted and talented program assumes a multi-dimensional approach to the learning process by emphasizing both affective and cognitive domains of the learner and the role they play in the learner’s overall maturation. This is an essential ingredient in order for these students to maximize their potentials both in the present and in the future.
ABOUT US
Kindergarten to Grade 2
All kindergarten through grade 2 students in the Osceola School District receives thirty minutes of enrichment each week by a certified GT specialist. The specialist challenges, fosters creativity, develops higher order thinking skills, and practices problem solving. Rachel Gist is the K-2 enrichment teacher.
Grade 3-4
Students are identified as gifted beginning in grade 3. Students identified as gifted work with a gifted specialist for 150 minutes a week. The goal is to challenge students to be problem solvers, use higher level thinking skills, and to foster creativity above what is normally taught in the regular school setting. Rachel Gist is the gifted specialist.
Grades 5-8
Students who are identified receive gifted instruction through Pre-AP classes. Students are given a differentiated instruction in content areas. The Pre-AP program is open to all students.
Grades 9-12
To develop independences and develop interests, GT students participate in Pre-Advance Placement & Advanced Placement class. The Advanced Placement Program is open to all students.
Programs Affiliated with the Osceola Gifted & Talented Program include:
Odyssey of the Mind, Quiz Bowl and Chess