There is n need to create an IEP structure to work effectively with gifted students.
The Medford School system is one of the first systems statewide taking a leadership role in the development of new initiatives for gifted students. Medford is the recipient of a Javits Grant for this purpose. The Medford Superintendent was given an award by the Massachusetts Association of Gifted Educators for his leadership role in this area. The Superintendent also was a featured speaker on the subject at a University of Massachusetts conference on the gifted.
Medford has used the Javits Grant to train teachers grades K-8 in the identification and instruction of gifted students.
It is expected that teachers who have been trained will begin to share their knowledge with colleagues and expand our capacity to work with this population.
Differentiated instruction is the key. Teachers must provide enriched opportunities for students who display gifts and talents.
We need to focus our teachers on differentiated instruction and not bog them down in more paperwork.
