Advanced Academics and Talent Development

How Gifted Services Are Provided at Dr. Charles R. Drew Elementary

Kristina Farrell                                                                                                                                                            kristina.farrell@apsva.us                                                                                                                                           

Resource Teacher for the Gifted  

Arlington Public Schools is dedicated to maximizing the strengths and potential of all students so they may become self-confident, well-rounded, responsible and productive citizens. Believing that each and every individual has merit, we recognize that certain learners within the school population have unique abilities, interests, needs and potential for accomplishment. These characteristics necessitate systematic, continuous services to present unique and appropriately differentiated curricula and learning opportunities responsive to individual learning rates, styles, and interests. Gifted students need opportunities to think abstractly, work at various rates and levels of complexity, and pursue tasks independently. In addition, students eligible for gifted services need opportunities to learn with others of like abilities, as well as opportunities to develop social relationships with others of all abilities.

How Can a Resource Teacher for the Gifted Benefit Our School?

On a school-wide level, the Resource Teacher for the Gifted helps to:

·         Coordinate the gifted identification process for students who are referred for services

·         Provide staff development about gifted education, differentiation, critical and creative thinking, etc.

·         Serve as Gifted Services liaison

·         Disseminate information to staff about gifted conferences/workshops

·         Oversee the application process for gifted summer programs

A Gifted Resource Teacher can benefit teachers by helping to:

·         Plan/collaborate on lesson or unit development

·         Provide and model strategies for differentiating curriculum and instruction for highly able and identified gifted students

·         Gather resources to supplement and extend classroom lessons

·         Teach whole-class “thinking tools” lessons specific to applicable topics

·         Instruct small groups for special projects or extension lessons

·         Help coordinate class activities, field trips, or speakers

·         Provide support for parent contacts and conferences

A Gifted Resource Teacher can benefit students and parents by working to:

·         Assist with the needs of individual students

·         Provide guidance regarding summer programs

·         Inform families about community resources and opportunities

·         Communicate with parents about gifted services