Gifted Programs: A Deeper Look

As a former recipient of gifted education services, I was interested in the laws surrounding gifted programs and the requirements to teach them. The Pennsylvania Department of Education does not have enough requirements in place for gifted program structure, the qualifications necessary to teach gifted classes, and the specific support services needed for gifted children to meet their potential. Dr. Katie Leckenby and I created a survey which was administered to members of the Pennsylvania Association of Gifted Education. The project is ongoing, with 27 responses thus far. I will also be observing middle school gifted programs at some of the participating schools.