Gifted & Talented (GT)

2019 Texas Statutes Education Code Title 2 - Public Education
Subtitle F - Curriculum, Programs, and Services
Chapter 29 - Educational Programs
Subchapter D. Educational Programs for Gifted and Talented Students
Section 29.121. Definition

...[a] "gifted and talented student" means a child or youth 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.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.

The El Paso Independent School District is committed to meeting gifted and talented students' intellectual, social, and emotional needs. We believe that every student deserves appropriate educational opportunities and resources. However, we also recognize that gifted and talented students have unique needs and abilities that require special attention.

We offer stimulating and challenging curricula modified in depth, complexity, and pacing to help these students reach their full potential and make valuable contributions to society. Our gifted programs promote mastery of high-level concepts and skills, leading to the creation of sophisticated products and performances.

We rely on the collaboration and support of educators, parents, and community members to provide the best possible education for our gifted and talented students.

GT Facilitator

Sarah Escandon
915-230-3020
Email Sarah Escandon

1100 N. Stanton
El Paso, TX 79902

District Policies

Advanced Courses

State Goal for Services for Gifted 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. 

The Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted Talented Students provides a framework for Gifted and Talented (G/T) services and classifies them into two categories: accountability and exemplary. This plan outlines the services that should be offered without imposing restrictive regulations. As per the State Plan, we shall provide services that align with the six aspects of G/T service design: 

 

1. Fidelity of Services - Advanced Academics shall comply with gifted/talented accountability standards and monitor the effectiveness of assessments and services for gifted/talented students.

2. Student Assessment - Multiple assessments and criteria will identify students from varied backgrounds for program services, measure diverse abilities and intelligence, and provide students with opportunities to demonstrate their talents and strengths.

3. Program Design - Flexible gifted and talented program options shall be supported by appropriate resources to provide a continuum of learning experiences in creative and critical thinking, complex problem-solving, independent learning, leadership, and creative productivity.

4. Curriculum and Instruction - Curriculum and instruction for the gifted and talented should ensure students an array of opportunities to excel due to curriculum design with depth and complexity, flexible pacing and acceleration, independent study, and assessment.

5. Professional Development - Ongoing professional development shall ensure that all personnel supporting, planning, developing, or delivering services to gifted and talented students have the expertise to offer appropriate options and curricula.

6. Family-Community Development - Advanced Academics should provide educational services and emotional and social support for families and students, facilitating interaction among schools, the community, administrators, and legislative bodies.