If you are new to gifted education and your district is not offering much in the way of training, I would highly recommend enrolling in some sort of webinar or course to become familiar with gifted education in your state. You can be the best teacher in the building, but if you don’t know the regulations and timelines, your success will be limited or nonexistent. Look for a program that covers topics such as:
- The history of gifted education
- Characteristics of a gifted student
- Compliance and regulations
- Screening/evaluation
- Timelines
- How to complete the necessary paperwork
- Social and emotional needs of gifted students
School districts in the state of Pennsylvania are governed by regional organizations called intermediate units. With much of professional development taking place online, you are sure to find some sort of course or webinar offered by any of the larger intermediate units. Check with those overseeing the big cities first. I participated in Gifted Boot Camp through the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, IU3, located in Pittsburgh,PA.
Another place to look for information is a regional gifted education association. You can search for your state through the National Association for Gifted Children here. Teachers in Pennsylvania can join the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education. Many have their own conferences, workshops, and classes.
Learning as much as you can about your role as a gifted educator as soon as possible is essential to delivering the most appropriate services and supports to your students. Do not skip this step.