1 of 13

JACKSON

SCHOOL DISTRICT

TALENTED AND GIFTED PROGRAM

“JTAG”

Nicole Pormilli, Superintendent of Schools

Robert Rotante, Assistant Superintendent, Elementary Level

Laura Godlesky, Assistant Superintendent, Secondary Level

Nicole Avila, Program Lead Coordinator

2 of 13

Committee Process

Develop Committee Goals

Reviewed State Regulations

Assess Program (G&T)

  • Instructional Goals and Format
  • Identification Criteria (on-going)
  • Entrance Criteria and Matrices (on-going)

for all student populations

  • G&T BOE Policy

3 of 13

New Jersey’s Definition

N.J.A.C. 6A:8-1.3: "Gifted and talented students" means students who possess or demonstrate high levels of ability in one or more content areas when compared to their chronological peers in the local school district and who require modifications of their educational program if they are to achieve in accordance with their capabilities.

4 of 13

JTAG GOAL

GOAL:

We are dedicated to providing opportunities for all of our students to explore their intellectual and creative talents through enriched educational experiences. We recognize that students need to be challenged beyond the general education classroom as it pertains to their readiness, ability and interests. Multiple measures are used to identify learner's learning levels and for consideration of the JTAG (Jackson's Talented and Gifted) Program.

5 of 13

What Does the State Recommend?

  • While NJ has not adopted standards, standards are available for use through the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) and also National Standards.
  • Teachers should be trained using teacher preparation programs
  • NJDOE Legislation

NJ

6 of 13

What Does the Research say?

  • G&T learners are typically 2-5% of the population
  • K-2 clustering with in-class differentiation is an effective model
  • “Compacting” what students already know allows time for acceleration or enrichment beyond the basic curriculum, usually interest-based.

7 of 13

GOALS OF THE JTAG PROGRAM

To enhance our students’ ability to:

  • Think critically & creatively
  • Collaborate & communicate effectively
  • Lead, listen and learn from others
  • Persevere through complex tasks

8 of 13

Jackson’s G & T Program Mission Statement

The mission of the JTAG Program is to:

  • Provide learning experiences focused on thinking skills
  • Motivate and challenge all students
  • Build the essential foundation for thinking and understanding
  • Foster a love for learning
  • Learn to examine our thinking and identify metacognitive strategies

9 of 13

JTAG Program Offerings

K-12: Personalized Learning Model in class

K-12: Summer Programs Accelerated Learning & Enrichment

3-4-5: After School Programs

  • Odyssey of the Minds

6-8: After School Programs

  • Odyssey of the Minds
    • Additional Opportunities for Learners

Advanced ELA

Advanced Math

Math League

Builder’s Club

Band/Chorus

Theatre

9-12: Academies of Learning (STEM; Business; Arts; Digital Media)

Honors Classes

AP Classes

Dual College Credit Offerings

Band/Theater/Chorus/Athletics

10 of 13

G&T Program

PROGRAM:

  • Elementary
    • ODYSSEY of the MIND
  • Middle School
    • ODYSSEY of the MIND
  • MATRIX Development (Elementary/Secondary)
  • CURRICULUM Alignment

11 of 13

District-wide Enrichment

Whole School Enrichment

Elementary

    • Personalized Learning & Goal Setting
    • Differentiated Instructional Model
    • Language Infusion
    • Trips/Assemblies (to be determined)
    • Spelling Bee

Middle School

High School

    • Honors Classes
    • Band/Chorus/Theatre
    • Extra-Curricular Clubs
    • Athletics
    • Academies of Learning

K-5 Differentiation

  • Balanced Literacy
  • Fundations
  • Patterns of Power
  • DIBELS
  • Universal Screener
  • enVision Math
  • NextGen Science K-5

6-8 Differentiation

  • Balanced Literacy
  • enVision Math
  • NextGen Science
  • Problem Based Learning Social Studies
  • Advanced Math
  • Advanced ELA

12 of 13

RESOURCES

Some resources to support further extension of learning at home.

MATH K-8

RESEARCH and STUDY SKILLS

STEM CODING

ARTS

MINDFULNESS

HOT TOPICS Reading List

JSD Academies of Learning

13 of 13

An individual who believes that the district has not complied with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:35-34 et seq. may file a complaint with the Gifted and Talented Lead Teacher;

If they are not satisfied with that decision, they can then contact the Building Principal and the Director of Curriculum;

If they would like to pursue their concern, they can request an appeal then with the Assistant Superintendent and the Superintendent. A final appeal can then be submitted for review to the Board of Education.

The Board shall issue a decision, in writing, to affirm, reject, or modify the district’s action in the matter.

The individual may then file a petition of appeal of the Board’s written decision to the Commissioner of Education through the Office of Controversies and Disputes in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:6-9 and the procedures set forth in State Board of Education regulations.