Philosophy 
The Gifted and Talented Program at Wilder will identify and provide an educational program for the intellectually and academically gifted and talented student in grades K-5. The program will be flexible, child-centered and provide a variety of options including higher level learning activities and experiences, independent studies, peer interaction and research opportunities. Gifted and talented students, families and educators will find an atmosphere of support and guidance at Wilder. 

Definition 
"Gifted and talented children" means those persons between the ages of five and twenty-one whose abilities, talents and potential for accomplishment are so exceptional or developmentally advanced that they require special provisions to meet their exceptional needs. …"Gifted and talented students are capable of high performance, exceptional production or exceptional learning behavior by virtue of any or combination of these areas: general or specific ability, specific academic aptitude, creative or productive thinking, leadership…abilities…"(Source: Colorado Exceptional Children’s Act) 

Student Search Nomination Process 
Step One – Student Search- the G/T Facilitator asks for informal review of students.

Step Two – Nomination- The G/T Facilitator collects information on nominated students. Students may be nominated by G/T Facilitators, classroom teachers, counselors, parents, special services, self and peers. Information may be collected from parents, students, teachers, classroom assessments, and standardized testing. Students who transfer from other G/T school programs are automatically nominated. 

Step Three – Recognition or Identification- 3 positive indicators out of 6 signal exceptional needs: 
Student Achievement- Indicator of student knowledge 
Student Interest- Indicator of student’s focus areas and /or curiosity 
Student Motivation to Learn- Indicator of student’s commitment to pursue learning 
Student Aptitude- Indicator of student’s demonstrated mastery 
Student Performance- Indicator of a student's demonstrated mastery 
Observable Student Behaviors- Indicator of a student’s need for differentiation 
Step Four - Service Options Match- Plan for services to match exceptional needs. Services include, Flexible grouping, Cluster grouping, Pullout grouping, Acceleration by subject, and Acceleration by grade skipping. 

Instructional Strategies for Gifted and Talented Students 
Differentiating 
Compacting 
Independent projects 
Ability groups 
Enrichment activities