Identification Process

Connecticut requires each local board of education to have a process in place to refer, identify, and evaluate gifted and talented students in grades K–12.

• Referrals can be made by:

  • Teachers

  • Administrators

  • Parents or guardians

  • The students themselves
    
    

💡 Note: While identification is required, providing specific services or programs for gifted and talented students is optional and determined by each school district.

Horace W. Porter School's Approach

Horace W. Porter School does not offer a separate, dedicated program for students identified as gifted and/or talented. However, the identification process plays a vital role in understanding a student's current or potential educational needs.

1.These insights are shared with the student’s parents and teachers
2. Teachers use this information to tailor instruction using research-based strategies

Instructional Strategies for High-Ability Learners

To support advanced and creative learners, educators may use a variety of differentiation techniques, such as:

• ✅ Personalized goal setting

• ✅ Course or grade acceleration

• ✅ Access to advanced curricular materials

• ✅ Flexible grouping strategies

• ✅ Independent or small-group advanced learning

• ✅ Enrichment through challenging readings, problems, technology, stem or independent projects
  
  

If you have questions about the gifted and talented identification process in Columbia Public Schools, please contact your child’s teacher, building administrator or Director of Student Services.