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gifted & talented

Continuum of Services

iLearn Schools offers tiered programming and services for gifted and talented students, with additional eligibility requirements for Tier III programming. 

Students who achieve above a certain percentile ranking among their district peers but didn’t officially qualify for G&T services (top 2%-6%) may still be considered for the Rising Talent Pool and benefit from certain Tier I & II services.

Tier I: G&T in the Classroom

iLearn Schools Gifted and Talented Department provides accommodations in the classroom for K-12 students identified as G&T through well-established and research-based G&T strategies to ensure that each student’s unique needs and abilities are effectively supported.

DIFFERENTIATION

At iLearn Schools, we are committed to providing personalized learning experiences that cater to the unique needs of every student. Differentiation is a cornerstone of our educational approach, ensuring that each student can succeed and thrive. Here are the key aspects of our differentiation strategy:

  1. Learning Structures: Students who demonstrate mastery of the lesson material or relevant skills benefit from differentiated learning structures. This allows them to explore their strengths in greater depth and complexity.

  2. Content Differentiation: Our curriculum includes differentiated content that matches the pace, interests, and skill levels of students. This approach keeps students engaged and appropriately challenged, whether in reading, math, or other subjects.

  3. Process Differentiation: Understanding that students have varied learning styles, we employ process differentiation. This method adapts how students engage with the material, ensuring it aligns with their individual learning preferences and strengths.

  4. Product Differentiation: Students who excel in their studies can express their knowledge through different modes, such as visual projects, written reports, and more. Product differentiation allows students to showcase their learning in ways that best highlight their abilities.

 
HOW-TO USE DIFFERENTIATION IN THE CLASSROOM

To learn more about Differentiation, implementations strategies and case examples in the classroom for different subject areas, please review the relevant section of the iLearn G&T Program Staff Handbook and iLearn G&T Strategy Manual. 

GROUPING

Grouping gifted children is one of the foundations of exemplary gifted education practice. The research on the many grouping strategies available to educators of these children is long, consistent, and overwhelmingly positive (Rogers, 2006; Tieso, 2003).

Flexible Grouping
  • a teacher of a mixed ability class subdivides the class into groups according to their “readiness” for the curriculum to be taught
Like-ability Cooperative Groups
  • when a teacher decides to use cooperative learning groups in a mixed ability classroom, the highest ability 3-4 students are grouped together for a differentiated cooperative task or learning experience and given differentiated expectations or assessments for the experience
 
HOW-TO USE GROUPING STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM

To learn more about Flexible/Ability Grouping, implementations strategies and case examples in the classroom, please review the relevant section of the iLearn G&T Program Staff Handbook and iLearn G&T Strategy Manual.

ACCELERATION

Acceleration occurs when students move through traditional curriculum at rates faster than typical. iLearn Schools offer the following acceleration opportunities:

Curriciulum Compacting
  • Curriculum compacting at iLearn Schools is a form of acceleration for K-12 students. It identifies those who have already mastered standard content and allows them to bypass basic exercises. Instead, these students move on to more advanced or enriched material. This tailored approach ensures they remain engaged and challenged, promoting faster academic growth and deeper understanding.
Advanced Placement
  • iLearn Schools offers acceleration at the high school level, through AP course offerings in grades 9-12.
 
MORE ABOUT ACCELERATION IN THE CLASSROOM

To learn more about Acceleration, implementations strategies and current offerings, please review the relevant section of the iLearn G&T Program Staff Handbook and iLearn G&T Strategy Manual.

TWICE EXCEPTIONALITY 

Twice-Exceptional students are;

those who are identified as gifted and talented who also have met criteria for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 plan.

NAGC Definition

A term used to describe a student who is both gifted and disabled. These students may also be referred to as having dual exceptionalities or as being gifted with learning disabilities (GT/LD).)

MORE ABOUT TWICE-EXCEPTIONAL SUPPORT IN THE CLASSROOM

To learn more about Twice-Exceptionality, identification strategies and current support programs, please review the relevant section of the iLearn G&T Program Staff Handbook.

FOR TEACHERS

iLearn Schools has put together a G&T Handbook for Teachers that provides information on giftedness, common traits and characteristics (including twice-exceptionality), and educational programming tools and strategies appropriate for K-12 classroom use:

 
ADDITIONAL READING

“Five Dimensions of Differentiation” & “Compacting” Renzulli Center for Creativity, Gifted Education, and Talent Development at UCONN

“Assessment and Student Success in a Differentiated Classroom” Carol Ann Tomlinson, Tonya R. Moon. ASCD

“Differentiation Through Flexible Grouping”. Ford. Michael. P. 2005. University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

“A Teacher’s Guide to Flexible Grouping and Collaborative Learning”  Brulles. Brown. Spirit Publishing

“Acceleration” National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)

Tier II: G&T Beyond the Classroom

iLearn Schools is committed to serving students with gifts and talented outside of the classroom through G&T after-school clubs, workshops featuring expert speakers, camps, field trips, luncheons, social activities, and one-on-one counseling.

iLearn Schools Gifted and Talented Department may endorse the following list of clubs under designated subject categories. Club offerings are subject to student demand and campus teacher availability. If you would like to see any of the clubs listed below offered in your school campus, please reach out to your campus G&T Coordinator.

Mathematics

The iLearn Schools Gifted and Talented (G&T) Department is dedicated to enriching the educational experience of our G&T and Rising Talent Pool students through a variety of events, field trips, and workshops. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore new interests, develop their skills, and engage with their peers in meaningful ways.

Field Trips

Our field trips are designed to offer students real-world experiences that complement their academic learning. These trips include visits to museums, participation in academic contests, and other educational excursions.

Workshops

We host a range of workshops aimed at broadening our students’ horizons. These include career workshops, sessions on artificial intelligence, and other contemporary topics. These workshops often feature expert speakers who share their knowledge and inspire our students.

G&T Socials

We believe in the importance of social interaction and community building. Our social events include:

  • student luncheons,
  • snack socials,
  • parent breakfasts,
  • tournaments,
  • G&T information sessions

at various school campuses. These events foster a sense of belonging and community among students, parents, and staff.

For more information on G&T trips and events, please reach out to your campus G&T Coordinator.

IN COLLABORATION WITH ILEARN SCHOOLS COUNSELORS

One-On-One Counseling

iLearn Schools Counselors work with students identified as gifted and talented, provide counseling services in academics, career planning, and social emotional needs.

COUNSELING G&T STUDENTS 

To read more about counseling Gifted populations, please refer to iLearn Counseling Gifted Students Staff Handbook.

For more information on G&T One-on-One Counseling, please reach out to your school campus counselor.

Tier III: G&T Affiliate Programs

At iLearn Schools, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of our Gifted and Talented (G&T) students through a variety of enriching programs. Our distinguished affiliate programs are designed to challenge and inspire students across all grade levels, fostering academic excellence, leadership, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Explore our comprehensive offerings, from advanced STEM initiatives and experiential challenges to competitive literacy and math contests, vibrant arts and athletics programs, and robust college readiness support. Each program aims to cultivate the unique talents of our students, preparing them for future success.

iStellar is iLearn Schools’ Advanced Achievement Saturday programming for students with gifts and talents who want to excel in their problem solving, analytical thinking, creative and leadership capabilities through rigorous content instruction and competition training. 

With its stellar team of experienced and academically driven educators, iStellar aims to promote a love of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, instill in their students a competitive spirit, and prepare them for success in the intensely demanding academic environment of nation’s top colleges and universities.

First launched in November 2018, iStellar offers Fall-Spring semester weekend programs, and intensive boot camps for advanced students. Based on the “recitation” model of top colleges like MIT and CalTech; iStellar class setting is small in size, and is a place for active learning through discussion of key concepts, and mastery of problem solving techniques.

Session Details

Saturdays 2 X 12 Week sessions in Fall and Spring

Grades 4-8

Course Offerings Competitive Mathematics | English Language Arts | Computer Science & Coding | Robotics

Location Middle School Campuses (Bergen, Hudson, Passaic, Paterson)

Admissions

If you are interested in iStellar Saturday program at your campus, please visit istellar.org/admissions for more details. Students officially placed in Gifted & Talented services, and/or Rising Talent Pool are encouraged to apply.

Mathematics
    • MathCON: A national math competition for students in grades 5-12. MathCON
    • Mathcounts: A national middle school mathematics competition that builds problem-solving skills and fosters achievement. Mathcounts
    • American Mathematics Competitions (AMC): A series of examinations and curriculum materials that build problem-solving skills and mathematical knowledge in middle and high school students. AMC
    • Math Kangaroo: An international mathematical competition for students in grades 1-12, hosted by iLearn Schools. Math Kangaroo
Robotics
    • FIRST Lego League (FLL): Engages students in hands-on STEM activities by designing, building, and programming robots. Students compete in regional and national robotics competitions, developing critical thinking, teamwork, and engineering skills. FIRST Lego League
    • Robotics Scrimmage Contest: A competition hosted by iLearn Schools where students design, build, and program robots to compete in various challenges, enhancing their engineering and teamwork skills (Grades 4-12).
Reading, Literacy, and Writing
    • Battle of the Books: A reading competition where students read a list of books and compete in teams to answer questions, promoting reading comprehension and a love for literature (Grades K-12).
    • Spelling Bee: A competition that challenges students to spell a wide array of words, enhancing their spelling and vocabulary skills (Grades K-12).
    • iLearn Writing Contest: A school-wide competition that encourages students to showcase their writing skills through essays, stories, and other written formats, fostering creativity and proficiency in writing (Grades K-12).
    • New York Times Learning Network Contests: Encourages students to develop their reading, writing and critical thinking skills by participating in the annual New York Times contests, where they can read, produce videos, submit essays, on a variety of topics and potentially be published (Grades 5-12).

FIRST Lego League (FLL) Robotics: This program engages students in hands-on, STEM-related activities by having them design, build, and program robots using LEGO kits. Students compete in regional and national robotics competitions, developing critical thinking, teamwork, and engineering skills.

Make Things Happen: Encourages students to take on leadership roles and implement community service projects, fostering responsibility and civic engagement (Grades K-12).

Science Olympiad: Allows students to compete in various scientific disciplines through team-based events, enhancing problem-solving and research skills (Grades 4-8).

Science Fair: Provides opportunities for students to present their scientific research and findings in a competitive setting, fostering innovation and scientific inquiry (Grades 9-12).

STEAM Parent Nights Engages families in their children’s educational journey through interactive and informative events focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.

 

For more information on iLearn Schools STEM programs, please reach out to your school iStellar Coach and/or Gifted Talented Coordinator.

Visual and Performing Arts Programs

We are committed to providing a well-rounded education that includes opportunities for students to explore their talents in the arts, participate in performance activities, and engage in athletics. Our programs are designed to enhance students’ creativity, confidence, teamwork, and physical well-being.

Drama Performance and Production

iLearn Schools offers Drama Performance Nights, where students showcase their acting and theatrical skills through school plays and drama productions. These events provide students with the opportunity to express themselves creatively, build confidence, and develop public speaking skills.

Concerts and Recitals

Concert and recital performance events highlight the musical talents of our students. Participants have the chance to perform in front of an audience, whether playing instruments, singing in choirs, or participating in bands. These events foster a love for music and help students develop their musical abilities.

Art Clubs and Student Artists

iLearn Schools’ Art Clubs provide a space for students to explore various forms of visual arts, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and more. Student artists have the opportunity to participate in contests and exhibitions, showcasing their work and gaining recognition for their creative talents.

Benefits of Participation
  • Enhanced Creativity and Confidence: Participation in arts and performance activities helps students develop their creative skills and build confidence.
  • Recognition and Achievement: Students have the opportunity to gain recognition for their talents and achievements through performances, contests, and competitions.
How to Get Involved

Gifted and talented students interested in joining any of our arts or performance programs should contact their school’s administration or the respective program advisors for more information on how to get involved.

Athletics Programs

We are committed to providing a well-rounded education that includes opportunities for students to explore their talents in the arts, participate in performance activities, and engage in athletics. Our programs are designed to enhance students’ creativity, confidence, teamwork, and physical well-being.

Varsity Teams

iLearn Schools offers a robust athletics program with various varsity teams. Students can participate in sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and more. Our athletics program emphasizes physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship, providing students with the opportunity to compete at a high level.

Fitness and Intramural Sports

In addition to varsity teams, iLearn Schools also offers fitness programs and intramural sports. These activities encourage all students to stay active, develop healthy habits, and enjoy the benefits of physical exercise in a fun and supportive environment.

Benefits of Participation
  • Teamwork and Leadership: Engaging in sports and group activities fosters teamwork, leadership, and cooperation.
  • Physical Well-Being: Athletic programs promote physical fitness and healthy living.
  • Recognition and Achievement: Students have the opportunity to gain recognition for their talents and achievements through performances, contests, and competitions.
How to Get Involved

Gifted and talented students interested in joining any of our athletics programs should contact their school’s administration or the respective program advisors for more information on how to get involved.

About the National Honor Society

The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. These four pillars have been associated with membership in the organization since its inception in 1921.

NHS at iLearn High School Campuses

At iLearn Schools, we offer the NHS program across our high school campuses for students in grades 9-12. Our NHS members are selected based on their outstanding performance in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Being a part of NHS provides students with numerous opportunities to participate in community service projects, develop leadership skills, and engage in academic enrichment activities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for membership, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Scholarship: Maintain a high cumulative grade point average (GPA).
  • Leadership: Demonstrate leadership skills in school and community activities.
  • Service: Participate in community service and volunteer activities.
  • Character: Exhibit high standards of integrity, honesty, and reliability.

Benefits of NHS Membership

  • Academic Recognition: Being a member of NHS is a mark of academic excellence.
  • Leadership Development: Opportunities to develop and showcase leadership skills.
  • Community Service: Engage in meaningful service projects that benefit the community.
  • College Preparation: Enhance your college applications with NHS membership, which is recognized by colleges and universities across the nation.

How to Apply

Students interested in joining the National Honor Society at iLearn Schools should contact their campus NHS Coordinator or visit the NHS Official Website for more information about the application process and membership requirements.

Join us in celebrating the achievements of our outstanding students and fostering a culture of academic excellence and community service at iLearn Schools!

About the Pathway to College (PTC) Program

The Mission of iLearn Schools’ Pathway to College (PTC) Program is to prepare students in 7th to 12th grades to become well-rounded individuals by actively following their interests, diversifying their experiences, and getting more education. The PTC program is designed by the Counseling Department at iLearn Schools to help qualified students improve their academic and social skills, support personal development, and enrich their education with extracurricular activities.

Program Highlights

  • Academic Support: The PTC program provides resources and guidance to help students excel academically. This includes tutoring, academic counseling, and preparation for standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT.
  • Personal Development: Students receive support in developing essential life skills, such as time management, communication, and leadership.
  • Extracurricular Enrichment: PTC offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including college visits, mentorship programs, and participation in clubs and organizations that align with students’ interests and goals.
  • College Preparation: The program focuses on preparing students for the college application process, including assistance with college essays, applications, and financial aid forms.

Eligibility Criteria

Students in grades 7-12 at iLearn Schools are eligible to apply for the PTC program. The selection process considers academic performance, personal development potential, and a demonstrated commitment to pursuing higher education.

Benefits of the PTC Program

  • Comprehensive Guidance: Receive tailored guidance and support from experienced counselors and mentors.
  • Enhanced Academic Performance: Improve your academic skills and performance through targeted support and resources.
  • College Readiness: Gain a competitive edge in the college application process with expert assistance and preparation.
  • Personal Growth: Develop important life skills and broaden your experiences through diverse extracurricular activities.

How to Apply

For more information on admissions and the program application process, please visit the iLearn Pathway to College (PTC) Program website.

 

iLearn Schools Gifted & Talented Department