Gifted Program Teacher Jobs

The role of a teacher for students who are gifted and talented specialist will vary depending upon the school district. Some schools operate a pull-out gifted program where students spend time every day or every week receiving enrichment lessons.

Another common method is for the gifted and talented teacher to work in an inclusion setting. There are also a variety of private schools that cater specifically to gifted students.

In addition to working directly with the gifted population, the gifted teacher will often help regular education teachers differentiate their instruction to meet the needs of students identified as gifted.

The certification process for gifted intervention specialists depends upon the state. In over half of the states, a certificate in gifted education is required. This is commonly earned through a master’s program. In other states, any already certified teacher is able to instruct the gifted program if he has the opportunity and desire to do so.

Similar to other intervention specialists, gifted teachers must know their students well. Planning curriculum that meets each students needs is vital. For example, a gifted fourth grade teacher may have some students reading at a sixth grade level and others reading at a high school level so individualized instruction is crucial. Teachers must seek out appropriate materials.

Gifted intervention specialists must use a variety of teaching methods that challenge their students yet let them experience success. Typically, a gifted teacher will take on more of a facilitator type teaching style.

Often, gifted teachers will plan special projects and opportunities to showcase their students’ abilities and provide unique learning experiences.

The gifted teacher must be able to identify potential students for the gifted program. Students who are gifted and talented but are disengaged from traditional schooling methods are often unidentified without the help of attentive and insightful gifted experts.

Parent communication is a key aspect of gifted education. Students in the gifted program may face problems like perfectionism, underachievement, and boredom that must be addressed with the parents.

Gifted programs are often under funded, which can cause stress and job insecurity to the gifted teacher. In times of economic uncertainty, gifted programs are sometimes cut from a school’s budget.

The rewards of working with gifted students are many. Innovative and knowledgeable, gifted students challenge their teachers to create meaningful lessons. Gifted teachers often work with a smaller population of students and create a strong sense of rapport with their students.

The following resources offer additional information on gifted education.

National Association for Gifted Children
Website: www.nagc.org/

The Association for the Gifted
Website: https://www.cectag.org//