Gifted Education

Exploring Potential Program

Exploring Potential is Littleton Elementary School District’s program for kindergarten through eighth-grade gifted learners. Gifted students in Exploring Potential receive pull-out and/or push-in services to enhance their learning. The curriculum consists of interdisciplinary, concept-based units that incorporate problem-based learning, higher-order thinking skills, and creativity.

Mission Statement:
“Through the provision of differentiated curriculum, parent outreach, and teacher coaching, Littleton Elementary School District’s Exploring Potential Program supports the academic, social and emotional needs of kindergarten through eighth-grade students identified as gifted.”

How is a Student Identified as Gifted?

Students scoring at the 97th percentile or higher on the Cognitive Abilities Test are identified as gifted in Littleton Elementary School District. We conduct gifted testing several times each school year. Any student referred by a parent/guardian or teacher is eligible for testing, as long as they have not been previously tested within the past year. The records of new students identified in other districts will be carefully reviewed to determine eligibility.

How to Advocate for Your Gifted Child

Educating yourself on the fundamental of gifted education is a great first step. This includes familiarizing yourself with:

• The academic, social, and emotional needs of gifted students.
• Laws pertaining to gifted education in Arizona.
• The expectations adopted by Littleton Elementary School District pertaining to gifted education.

If a concern arises, make an appointment to speak with the gifted education teacher.

Arizona state statute definition of a gifted student:
“due to superior intellect or advanced learning ability, or both, is not afforded an opportunity for otherwise attainable progress and development in regular classroom instruction and who needs appropriate gifted education services, to achieve at levels commensurate with the child’s intellect and ability.”

Gifted Education Staff