Talented and Gifted in Mathematics

Eugene 4J Navigation Guide for Parents of Children who are

How do I know if my child is gifted?

High scores on standardized tests 97% percentile or above OAKS

Overachiever Learns new concepts quickly Thinks “differently” Bored in class

Underachiever Refuses to “show work” Disruptive behavior Bored in class

What do 4J schools do?

OARS State mandates Identification Meet students at their rate and

level

“Parents are passionate advocates for their children… Parents have the right to request evaluation, to have a say in the TAG plan for their child, to navigate the system and to advocate for their child’s needs.”

Kerri Sage, 4J Talented and Gifted Program Specialist

How does the process work?

Identification Referral for evaluation Co-create a TAG Plan

“The State is in really bad shape right now. There’s no funding available for TAG and additionally, there’s no art teachers, music teachers, or specialists on staff in the schools. The kids need exposure.”

Cindy Sainz, Principal and TAG Coordinator, Adams Elementary School

What happens in middle school?

Accelerated placement 70% or better on entrance exam 93% or higher on EasyCBM

“We have a Math Club that is a very good source of enrichment… The club competes in several national and state competitions. We just placed first in the regionals.”

Craig McKenzie, Math Dept Head, Roosevelt Middle School

What is there beyond the classroom?

Enrichment programs UO Super Summers, Saturdays Scholarships available

“By the time the kids get to us they are bored and the parents are really frustrated.”

Lauren Richardson, TAG Coordinator, Roosevelt Middle School

Web resources Khan Academy Hoagie’s Gifted Oregon Association for

Talented & Gifted

Is it enough? Differentiated classes

Don’t make them sit through standard classes

Let them work on their own without distraction

Emphasize challenging problems and understanding concepts

“4J has adopted a good Algebra 1 textbook, actually... There are also inexpensive texts from the Singapore Project.”

Shlomo Libeskind, Professor of Mathematics, University of Oregon

Conclusion

Better school experience

Better curricula Better funding Better future

Thank you