Gifted & Talented at SPARK

The Gifted and Talented Program in Atlanta Public Schools provides differentiated instruction for intellectually advanced and creatively gifted students. Gifted services are available for all eligible students in grades 1 through 12. 

In addition to advanced learning in the classroom, APS offers several enrichment opportunities to help gifted students explore their interests and strengths. Programs like Odyssey of the Mind, Middle School Academic Bowl, Georgia Academic Decathlon, internships and mentorships, and the Xanadu Summer Program allow students to think creatively, develop leadership skills, and challenge themselves in exciting and meaningful ways.

The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) Gifted Education & Advanced Academics division oversees gifted services across the state of Georgia  It ensures that laws and regulations pertaining to education are followed and that state and federal money appropriated for education is properly allocated to local school systems.  GaDOE provides education-related information to students, parents, teachers, educational staff, governmental officials and the media.   

Educational standards in Georgia are created and approved by the Georgia State Board of Education. The Georgia Department of Education then provides guidance and support to districts. Local school districts may add additional guidelines or programs, but all must align with the state standards.

Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) established guidelines for SENG-Model Parent Support Groups. SENG Model Parent Groups are structured to bring together interested parents of gifted and talented children to discuss such topics as motivation, discipline, stress management, and peer relationships. The co-facilitators of the group, though they are knowledgeable about parenting and about educating gifted/talented children, provide a non-judgmental and nurturing atmosphere that fosters learning and support.  

The Council for Exceptional Children(CEC) is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of individuals with disabilities and /or gifts and talents. CEC advocates for appropriate governmental policies, sets professional standards, provides professional development, advocates for individuals with exceptionalities and helps professionals obtain conditions and resources necessary for effective professional practice. Listed below are some of the services that are provided. 

1.     Professional development opportunities and resources 

2.     17 divisions for specialized information 

3.     Journals and newsletters with information on new research findings, classroom practices that work, federal legislation and policies. 

4.     Conventions and conferences 

MENSA is an organization that believes in the idea of forming a society of bright people. Mensa aspires to create a society that is non-political and free from all racial or religious distinctions. The Society welcomes people from every walk of life whose IQ is in the top 2% of the population. Mensa strives to identify and foster human intelligence for the benefit of humanity, to encourage research into the nature, characteristics and uses of intelligence, and to promote stimulating intellectual and social opportunities for its members.