Gifted & Talented
Atlanta Public Schools is dedicated to promoting the cognitive and affective growth of gifted and high-ability learners. Following are recommended links for information on specific topics or issues related to gifted education. These links will direct you away from this APS site for additional information, such as recommended publications and opportunities for gifted students.
Our Vision
Gifted and Talented Education in Atlanta Public Schools will architect globally competitive, critical, and creative thinkers of the 21st Century.
Our Mission
Through advocacy and innovation, the unique needs of gifted and talented students will be recognized, valued, and nurtured so their inspired minds are equipped to change the world.
Identifying Gifted Students
The Gifted and Talented Program in Atlanta Public Schools provides differentiated instruction for intellectually advanced and creatively gifted students. Gifted services are available for all eligible students in grades 1 through12.
According to Georgia Board Rule 160-4-2-.38, the state of Georgia defines a gifted and talented student as one who demonstrates a high degree of intellectual and/or creative ability(ies), exhibits an exceptionally high degree of motivation, and/or excels in specific academic fields, and who needs special instruction and/or special ancillary services to achieve at levels commensurate with his or her ability(ies).
Please watch this video for a thorough, 15-minute overview of how students are referred, assessed, and determination is made for APS Gifted Program eligibility. The process for submitting a request for parent referral for eligibility testing is addressed early in the video. Additionally, the links below will provide you with further resources for understanding.
1. Atlanta Public Schools' Implementation of the Georgia Board Rule (en espanol) is the guideline chart that drives the criteria students must meet in order to be determined eligible for gifted services in Georgia and in Atlanta Public Schools.
2. This calendar flow chart displays the Gifted Eligibility tasks that happen throughout a school year in Atlanta Public Schools.
3. The Screening and Referral Frequently Asked Questions (en espanol) answers questions regarding the gifted and talented identification process in Atlanta Public Schools (also covered in the video above).
4. The Explanation of How Assessments are used for Gifted Eligibility (en espanol) will provide information relating to the assessments used in the gifted identification process in Atlanta Public Schools.
Parent FAQs on the Gifted Eligibility Process and the Assessments Used
- Who oversees gifted education in Georgia's public schools?
- What is National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)?
- What is Georgia Association for Gifted ChildrenĀ (GAGC)?
- What is Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG)?
- What is The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)?
- What is MENSA?