Gifted and Talented
Kim Street
kstreet@onalaskaisd.net
What is "Gifted and Talented (G/T)"?
The state of Texas defines a Gifted and Talented student as a student who performs at or shows the potential for performing at a remarkably high level of accomplishment when compared to others of the same age, experience, or environment and who: (1) exhibits high performance capability in an intellectual, creative, or artistic area; (2) possesses an unusual capacity for leadership; or (3) excels in a specific academic field.
State Goal for Gifted and Talented Students
Students who participate in services designed for gifted/talented 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/talented students will have produced products and performances of professional quality as part of their program services.
Gifted and Talented Education
Onalaska ISD is committed to providing a maximum quality educational program for all its students. Gifted and talented students in the district represent a resource that cannot be neglected. Differentiated and enriched instruction is provided for students K-12 who are identified as needing gifted services according to established district criteria in the area of general intellectual ability. Gifted programs in OISD are based on the unique learning needs and characteristics of gifted learners, providing a curriculum to build on the strengths of these students to help them reach their potential.
Many enriching experiences await students in OISD's gifted and talented program. Parents are encouraged to become involved with the district’s gifted program. Working together, we believe we can enable our gifted students to achieve their goals and find success.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Identification begins with a parent or OISD staff member requesting GT testing through our online referral form. This will lead to the GT Identification screen process that uses both quantitate and qualitative measures to identify students.
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The GT Identification Screen Process takes places as follows: Parents or Staff refer students using Campus Referral form found on the OISD Website. Parent signs and returns the "Permission to Test form". Counselors begin screening process using the criteria listed above. GT Committee reviews all screening documents and results are confirmed. Parents are notified of results and explanation of next steps (if student qualifies).
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Onalaska ISD's GT Committee that consists of OISD Staff that have been trained in the Nature and Needs of GT Students develop the criteria for admission based on the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted and Talented Students. The committee meets to evaluate the screenings and program throughout the school year.
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No, students are only tested once a year to determine identification for the GT Program.
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At anytime during the school year, you have the option to withdraw your student from the program by contacting the campus counselor and requesting exit.
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GT students at the elementary levels will participate in a pull-out program which is structured, modified, and/or accommodated to meet their individual strengths and interests and is based on the four core areas. Opportunities for students to participate in the Texas Performance Standards Projects or other experiences that lead to the development of advanced-level products will be provided. Out-of-school options may be provided as appropriate. Additional opportunities such as the Academic Fair and specialized events related to the strengths and interests of gifted students may be provided. Onalaska ISD instructional staff, as appropriate, will adapt and/or modify the standard curriculum to meet the needs of gifted/talented students and those with special needs such as twice-exceptional, highly gifted, and English learners.
