Gifted and Talented
Overview
Identifying, Serving, Enriching, and Supporting Gifted Learners in Atlanta Public Schools
Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is committed to empowering exceptional learners to thrive academically and creatively. Through our Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program, we provide enriched learning experiences for students in grades K–12 who demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability or creative talent. These opportunities—available in all traditional APS schools—are designed to challenge, inspire, and nurture each child’s unique strengths. Students are identified through a fair, state-approved process that evaluates mental ability, academic achievement, creativity, and motivation, ensuring every gifted learner receives the right level of support.
Our Vision
Gifted and Talented Education in Atlanta Public Schools will architect globally competitive, critical, and creative thinkers of the 21st Century.
Our Mission
Through advocacy and innovation, the unique needs of gifted and talented students will be recognized,valued, and nurtured so their inspired minds are equipped to change the world.
Gifted and Talented Education in Atlanta Public Schools (APS) provides differentiated instruction for intellectually advanced and creatively gifted students. Gifted services are available for actively enrolled students in kindergarten through twelfth grade in an APS school. Note that students residing in the city of Atlanta enrolled in private schools or home study programs are not eligible for APS gifted testing and services.
Parent FAQs on the Gifted Eligibility Process and the Assessments Used
- What is Gifted and Talented Education?
- What opportunities are available for gifted learners?
- Who oversees gifted education in Georgia's public schools?
- How are standards updated?
- Where can I get support to help my gifted student?
What is Gifted and Talented Education?
What opportunities are available for gifted learners?
In addition to advanced learning in the classroom, APS offers several enrichment opportunities to help gifted students explore their interests and strengths. Programs like Odyssey of the Mind, Middle School Academic Bowl, Georgia Academic Decathlon, internships and mentorships, and the Xanadu Summer Program allow students to think creatively, develop leadership skills, and challenge themselves in exciting and meaningful ways.
Who oversees gifted education in Georgia's public schools?
The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) Gifted Education & Advanced Academics division oversees gifted services across the state of Georgia It ensures that laws and regulations pertaining to education are followed and that state and federal money appropriated for education is properly allocated to local school systems. GaDOE provides education-related information to students, parents, teachers, educational staff, governmental officials and the media.
How are standards updated?
Where can I get support to help my gifted student?
Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) established guidelines for SENG-Model Parent Support Groups. SENG Model Parent Groups are structured to bring together interested parents of gifted and talented children to discuss such topics as motivation, discipline, stress management, and peer relationships. The co-facilitators of the group, though they are knowledgeable about parenting and about educating gifted/talented children, provide a non-judgmental and nurturing atmosphere that fosters learning and support.
The Council for Exceptional Children(CEC) is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of individuals with disabilities and /or gifts and talents. CEC advocates for appropriate governmental policies, sets professional standards, provides professional development, advocates for individuals with exceptionalities and helps professionals obtain conditions and resources necessary for effective professional practice. Listed below are some of the services that are provided.
1. Professional development opportunities and resources
2. 17 divisions for specialized information
3. Journals and newsletters with information on new research findings, classroom practices that work, federal legislation and policies.
4. Conventions and conferences
MENSA is an organization that believes in the idea of forming a society of bright people. Mensa aspires to create a society that is non-political and free from all racial or religious distinctions. The Society welcomes people from every walk of life whose IQ is in the top 2% of the population. Mensa strives to identify and foster human intelligence for the benefit of humanity, to encourage research into the nature, characteristics and uses of intelligence, and to promote stimulating intellectual and social opportunities for its members.
Welcome Letter
Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to the Atlanta Public Schools Gifted and Talented Education Program! I am delighted to have the opportunity to provide Gifted and Talented Education instruction to your scholars at William Finch Elementary School during the 2025–2026 school year.
This year, students will participate in a wealth of engaging lessons and activities that integrate multiple disciplines and align with both the Georgia Standards of Excellence and the APS GATE Program Instructional Standards.
At Finch Elementary, students will be served through the Resource Gifted Delivery Model (Pull-Out). This model emphasizes personalized learning, ensuring that each student has opportunities to apply their knowledge to new, complex, and authentic experiences. Instruction and activities will be designed to help students grow not only academically, but also in essential skills such as critical thinking and global citizenship, along with communication, innovation, self-direction, collaboration, leadership, creative problem solving, and digital literacy.
To keep students engaged and to further increase their achievement, scholars will have opportunities to participate in enriching activities offered by the school, including the Science & Engineering Fair, Technology Fair, Debate, Reading Bowl, Picture Bowl, Spelling Bee, Art and Writing contests, and other special programs. These experiences will provide additional challenges and platforms for students to showcase their talents, deepen their learning, and develop new skills.
We will start the school year with a classroom theme titled Guardians of the Wild: Exploring and Protecting Earth’s Endangered Life. During this interdisciplinary unit, students will become passionate explorers and protectors of the natural world. They will engage in hands-on projects, research, and creative challenges that foster a deeper understanding of endangered species, ecosystems, and conservation efforts — all while developing essential skills and a sense of global citizenship.
I look forward to partnering with you this year to inspire curiosity, challenge thinking, and cultivate excellence in every student. Together, we will make this year filled with discovery, growth, and achievement. If you have any questions or concerns, please email Mrs. R. Bolden, your school-based GATE Lead Teacher at rbolden@atlanta.k12.ga.us or via phone at (404) 802-4000. Please leave a message and allow up to 24 hours for a response.
Warmest regards, Mrs. R. Bolden Gifted and Talented Education Teacher William Finch Elementary School
"Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel” Socrates
Please visit the Atlanta Public Schools Gifted and Talented website for more information. You will find answers to frequently asked questions about how we identify, serve, enrich, and support gifted students.
