Gifted Education

Gifted Education

The School District of Lee County Gifted Program is dedicated to identifying, recognizing, and nurturing students with advanced learning needs by providing enriched, challenging, and developmentally appropriate instruction. In alignment with Florida’s State Board of Education Rule 6A-6.03019, the program ensures equitable access and supports each child’s academic strengths as well as their social and emotional growth. Gifted Education Plans (EPs) are developed for eligible students to guide personalized learning and track progress toward their goals.

Step 1: Nomination

  1. Students can be nominated for Gifted services by a classroom teacher, parent(s)/guardian(s), or school staff.

  2. School staff submit a nomination packet with grades, observations, state test scores, and portfolio materials to the district office.

  3. District staff review the nomination packet to determine if the student meets the criteria to move forward to an evaluation.

Step 2: Evaluation

  1. Students who meet the criteria receive a consent-for-evaluation form, which must be signed by a parent or legal guardian and returned to the school.

  2. A psychologist is assigned and has 90 days (excluding holidays and school breaks) to complete the evaluation.

  3. A school representative completes the Gifted Characteristics checklist.

  4. All evaluation components are uploaded to the district platform for review.

Step 3: Eligibility

  1. District staff review and compile all evaluation documents for consideration of eligibility.

  2. An eligibility staffing meeting is scheduled with parent(s)/guardian(s) and school personnel.

  3. The eligibility meeting determines whether the student meets Florida's criteria for giftedness.

Gifted Program Options (Service Delivery Models):

Elementary School (Grades K-5)
Students participate in either a full-time or a part-time gifted program as identified in their Educational Plan (EP). Students receive grade-level curriculum delivered by Gifted-endorsed teachers who ensure instruction is appropriately accelerated, enriched, and differentiated. 

Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Students’ academic needs are met through advanced programs such as IB, AICE, AP, honors courses, and dual enrollment. Students also receive consultative gifted services, with a Gifted-endorsed teacher, to ensure instruction aligns with each student’s EP goals. 

High School (Grades 9-12)
Students’ academic needs are met through advanced programs such as IB, AICE, AP, honors courses, and dual enrollment. Students also receive consultative gifted services, with a Gifted-endorsed teacher, to ensure instruction aligns with each student’s EP goals.

For more information on Gifted programs and instruction, visit the Florida Department of Education's website.