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Gifted/Talented Program Goals

Upper Merion Area School District
Mission Statement and Goals
for Gifted Education

Mission

The mission of the Upper Merion Area School District's Gifted program is to ensure that all gifted and talented students are identified and provided with individualized and challenging educational programs. We offer a range of options so that individual programs can be designed around each student's needs. These programs are based on each student's strengths and needs and are designed to develop their unique talents and abilities. We encourage gifted and talented students to join all students in making positive contributions to society.

After determining eligibility and need for specially-designed instruction (in compliance with Chapter 16 guidelines), an appropriate educational program is determined by a multidisciplinary team comprised of school personnel, parents, and (where appropriate) the student.

Program Goals

The Upper Merion Area School District's Gifted program was designed with input from teachers, administrators, parents, and students. We provide service to a diverse population of gifted learners. Goals of the program include:
- identifying candidates for the program and assessing their eligibility using a variety of tools and procedures.
- emphasizing a positive working relationship between parents and school personnel.
- creating an individualized, flexible, and appropriate program based on the measured strengths of each eligible student.
- providing counseling and appropriate support services for eligible students, including those who are low achieving or at risk.
- providing staff development opportunities for all school personnel, including support for the preparation of differentiated educational plans, materials, and curriculum by regular classroom teachers.

- promoting the use of strategies developed for challenging students’ analytical and critical thinking skills in regular classrooms.