Gifted

DEFINING GIFTED
The state of Missouri defines gifted children as "those children who exhibit precocious development of mental capacity and learning potential as determined by competent professional evaluation to the extent that continued educational growth and stimulation could best be served by an academic environment beyond that offered through a standard grade level curriculum." 

WGSD GIFTED PROGRAMMING
There are two gifted programs at Webster Groves School District: the Academic Gifted Program, and the Gifted Fine Arts Program. The Academic Gifted Program delivers services to students in grades 2 - 12. The Gifted Fine Arts Program delivers services to students in grades 3 - 8. Referral forms for both programs can be found in the navigation to the right.

PROGRAM GOALS
In the WGSD, gifted students have the opportunity to achieve district goals at the level commensurate with their ability.  They will also be challenged to apply their knowledge and skills in complex and advanced ways so that they can continue to develop academically. Along with the state’s Show-Me Standards, the Webster Groves School District Gifted and Talented Program Goals include:

• To provide challenging learning experiences beyond the regular curriculum.
• To develop and promote high level thinking and problem solving skills.
• To develop creative expression.
• To provide opportunities to develop self-awareness, autonomy, and self direction.
• To provide opportunities for sharing and exchanging ideas in a supportive environment.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Students may be referred for the Academic Gifted program at any time during the school year.
• A parent may complete one referral for their child throughout their tenure in the district. If a student is referred a second time for the academic gifted program and/or gifted fine arts program, there must be at least a one year lapse before the student is evaluated again. 
• Students will be evaluated in the order their referral is received. It may take approximately 8 weeks for the academic gifted evaluation report to be completed and mailed home.
• If a student is selected to participate in both the Gifted Fine Arts Program and the Gifted and Talented Program, concurrent participation in both programs will be made on a case by case decision with the school’s problem solving team including the parent/guardian.
• Due to COVID-19 county and district guidelines, the Gifted Evaluation Process may change without prior notice.