PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

The Challenge Program plan was designed to provide guidance and to assure that all gifted/talented students have the opportunity to be fairly and accurately assessed for advanced level services. The District will continue to update practices in order that gifted students master complex skills and demonstrate understanding of complex content.

Kingsville ISD’s Gifted and Talented students will be educationally successful and contributing members of society. The Kingsville ISD’s Challenge Program plans:

1. To identify (including nominating, screening, and selecting) all academically gifted and talented students, grades K 12, utilizing a comprehensive process characterized by objective and subjective criteria. Instruments and procedures used to assess students will measure diverse abilities and intelligences and provide students an opportunity to demonstrate their talents and strengths.

2. To implement, and extend a qualitatively differentiated (content/process/product) academic program in the four core areas, in grades K 12, which will enable gifted and talented students to develop their potential and to demonstrate exceptional abilities. An array of opportunities that provide a learning continuum will be developed throughout the district.

3. To identify, select and train professional personnel in specialized staff development, focusing on the unique traits and needs of academically gifted students. Professional development will be provided on a regular basis and information disseminated to professionals in the district.

4. To increase parental involvement and community awareness in gifted education. The District will regularly encourage community and family participation in services designed for gifted/talented students.

5. To develop and implement an evaluation design in order to assess the extent to which the program goals, objectives, and activities are being achieve.