Effingham County offers a variety of programming options for gifted students. Elementary gifted students are served through a resource model, in which students are grouped with other gifted students a portion of each week and receive specialized instruction from a gifted endorsed teacher. In addition, many gifted students are also served through cluster grouping and collaboration between the gifted education specialist and the general education teacher.   Gifted education is an integral part of Effingham County’s total educational program. Gifted students are provided differentiated lessons and challenging educational opportunities, which enhance and extend the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards (CCGPS). Students work on higher-level thinking activities using age appropriate materials. They are provided opportunities for complex, in-depth study designed to build thinking, research, communication, and technology skills.   In addition, elementary gifted students progress through the Effingham County Gifted Education Curriculum, which provides a continuum of learning experiences to address the sequential and developmental needs of gifted students. Teaching methods include but are not limited to: direct instruction, guided practice, independent assignments, cooperative group activities, learning games, and planned experiences.    Gifted students may participate in:    

• P.E.T.S. Primary Education Thinking Skills
• Independent projects
• Chess Instruction
• Foreign Language study
  • K-2: Spanish
  • 3-5: Latin
• STEM Instruction
• Problem Based Learning

        Student achievement is evaluated using appropriate and specific criteria based on high expectations. Evaluation methods include graded work, teacher observation, and student self-evaluation. Students served through the Elementary Resource model will receive a Gifted grade on their report card.     Gifted Education Goals: 

• Develop and practice higher order and critical thinking skills
• Develop and practice creative thinking and problem solving skills
• Develop advanced research and study skills
• Develop and practice skills in the utilization of advanced technology
• Strengthen communication skills (verbal, nonverbal, and written) using various forms of media
• Develop leadership and social skills
• Encourage students to develop “can- do” attitudes, positive self-concept, and respect for others