I’ve been thinking a lot lately on meeting the needs of our gifted students. To say we are meeting their needs, I can’t help but wonder…are we? And how do we know? Why does it matter? How big a problem is it if we aren’t?
There are so many “invisible” pieces, such as the social and emotional needs. Academics are easier to monitor as long as they are achieving; however, what catches our attention to notice an underachiever? The long term consequences of assuming or taking this lightly are not a risk I’m willing to take. What about you? Do you know what the child could be facing in his or her future?
So, I ask again. What are you using to determine whether you are meeting the needs of your gifted students? Is it more than assumptions? A’s on assignments? Because they are good students in class? Can you articulate the needs and what you are doing to meet them? Do you know the needs?
Here’s a reading to add to your thinking. I hope you will join me in continuing to think and search for ways to ensure we are meeting the needs of ALL of our students.
Teach to Educate 