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Gifted and Talented Education » Gifted and Talented Education

Gifted and Talented Education

UACHS Gifted and Talented Education Programming:
  • Advanced Placement (AP) Courses in Biology, Calculus, Computer Science Principles, English II Seminar, English III Language & Composition, and US History.
  • Dual Enrollment Course Opportunities in English IV and Statistics at New Jersey City University.
  • Capstone Project: Doc Your Block – A yearlong, multimedia community service research project with assigned teacher mentors for each student group.
  • Seminar Courses: AP Seminar – A high school course focused on developing critical skills such as research, analysis, and public speaking through project-based learning. This includes the College Board AP Seminar, part of the AP Capstone Diploma program.
  • Honors Course Offerings in Algebra I, Algebra II, Chemistry, English I, Geometry, Spanish II, US History I, and World Culture & Geography.
 
District Gifted and Talented Program Coordinator:
 
Compliance with NJ Gifted & Talented Act:
  • Ensure identification and services comply with N.J.S.A. 18A:35-34 to 39.
  • Follow guidance from N.J.A.C. 6A:8-3.1 on curricular and instructional adaptations.
  • Designate a Gifted & Talented Program Coordinator to oversee implementation and compliance.
Student Equitable & Multi-Measured Identification Process:
      • Use multiple measures for identification (e.g., standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, portfolios, observational checklists, and performance-based assessments).
      • Ensure identification is ongoing and inclusive of all populations (ELL, twice-exceptional, low-income).
      • Identification continues throughout students’ school careers.
Curriculum & Instruction Differentiation & Depth:
      • Curriculum aligned with NJSLS with necessary modifications, extensions, and accelerations.
      • Incorporate higher-order thinking, inquiry-based learning, and project-based tasks.
      • Provide advanced-level content and opportunities in core academic areas, arts, leadership, and creativity.
Tiered Support System Service Delivery Models
      • Tier I: Classroom differentiation for all learners.
      • Tier II: Small group pull-out/enrichment opportunities.
      • Tier III: Individualized programs such as mentorships, independent research, or grade/content acceleration
      • Consider cluster grouping, specialized electives, online learning, and dual enrollment for high school students. Options for acceleration, compacting, and independent study.
Provide annual training for teachers, administrators, and counselors on:
  • Characteristics and needs of gifted learners.
  • Instructional strategies for differentiation.
  • Cultural competence and equity in gifted education.
  • Twice-exceptionality and socio-emotional support.
Parent and Community Engagement
      • Host G&T information sessions for families.
      • Share clear criteria and procedures for identification and services.
      • Establish a G&T Advisory Committee including educators, parents, and community stakeholders.
      • Encourage community partnerships for mentorships, field experiences, and project-based learning.
Monitoring and Evaluation
      • Annual Program Review to evaluate effectiveness of services and student progress.
      • Use data to revise practices and improve access and equity.
      • Collect stakeholder feedback (students, parents, teachers).
      • Submit required reports to NJDOE as outlined by law.
 
NJDOE Gifted and Talented Website:
https://www.nj.gov/education/standards/gifted/
 
Revised UACHS Gifted and Talented Policy #6171.2 aligned to the “Strengthening Gifted and Talented Education Act” that Governor Murphy signed into law on January 13, 2020 and codified school district responsibilities in educating gifted and talented students as referenced in N.J.A.C 6A:8-3.1.
 

Complaint Process

 

Any individual who believes that the school has not complied with the provisions in the law or administrative code related to gifted and talented services may file a complaint with the UACHS board of trustees. The complaint shall be submitted in writing to the board office. The lead person or designee shall take the necessary actions to correct or remediate the complaint and report such actions to the board. The board shall issue a decision, in writing, to affirm, reject, or modify the school’s action in the matter.

 

If the complaint is not resolved to the individual’s satisfaction or the individual is not satisfied by the written decision of the board, the  individual may then file a petition of appeal of the board’s written decision to the Commissioner of Education through the Office of Controversies and Disputes in accordance with law (N.J.S.A. 18A:6-9) and the procedures set forth in State Board of Education regulations.

 
Complaints for noncompliance policy on gifted and talented education can be referred to Mrs. Rhonda Curry, School Business Administrator, via email at [email protected] and she may be reached via phone at 201-200-2502.