Resource
Gifted & Talented Program
The Douglas County School District's Gifted and Talented (GT) program aims to identify and nurture gifted students from grades 3 through 6. The program begins with testing in the spring semester of 2nd grade, with students starting the GT program in the fall semester of 3rd grade.
Our mission is to provide a challenging and supportive educational environment that fosters the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of gifted students, preparing them for lifelong learning and success.
Helping gifted students in grades 3-6 excel through project-based learning and STEAM, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
Identification & Nomination Process
Nomination and Testing:
- Spring Semester of 2nd Grade: Students can be nominated by parents, teachers, or any other individual familiar with the student’s abilities. Anyone can nominate a student for the GT program by completing the nomination form and submitting it to the GT program coordinator.
- Eligibility Decision: Parents will receive a letter regarding the eligibility decision and a parent authorization form for testing.
Criteria for Identification:
- Multiple criteria are used for identification, including teacher observations, academic achievement data, and cognitive assessments.
Program Structure & Curriculum
- Grades 3-6: Students participate in the GT program within their regular classrooms, receiving specialized instruction from GT-endorsed teachers.
Project-Based Learning and STEAM:
- Emphasizes innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration with like-minded peers.
- Encourages a process-oriented approach involving creating, testing, failing, improving, and presenting.
- Integrates presentations and choice menus to accommodate different learning styles.
New Developments & Program Goals
DCSD is celebrating a notable expansion of its Gifted and Talented Services, which has impressively grown from 47 to 113 students. The addition of teacher Kelly Esterby, collaborating with Jacqueline Martin (currently overseeing the program in 10 schools), marks a significant enhancement. This achievement results from diligent efforts in identifying students using MAP scores and cognitive assessments.
Program Goals
- To develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
- To provide opportunities for advanced learning and intellectual growth.
- To support the social and emotional needs of gifted students.
GT Staff
Jacqueline Martin
GT Teacher
Kellie Esterby
GT Teacher
Contact Information
Jacqueline Martin- Gifted and Talented Teacher
Email: jmartin@dcsd.k12.nv.us
Kellie Esterby- Gifted and Talented Teacher
Email: kesterby@dcsd.k12.nv.us
Jeannie Dwyer - Executive Director of Inclusive Education
Phone: 775-265-5262
Resources
GT News
- GES
- GT
DCSD is celebrating a notable expansion of its Gifted and Talented Services, which has impressively grown from 47 to 113 students.