What are the behavior and learning characteristics of gifted children?
Gifted children have unique behaviors, learning modalities, and creative characteristics that differentiate them from their age-mates. Generally, gifted children:

• Learn at a much faster pace 
• Process material to a much greater depth
• Show incredible intensity in energy, imagination, intellectual prowess, sensitivity, and emotion which are not typical in the general population

What is the difference between a bright child and a gifted child?

               Source: Janice Szabos, Challenge Magazine
               Tennessee Association for the Gifted: www.tag-tenn.org

How is a gifted curriculum different from the curriculum in the regular classroom?
The Kyrene Gifted Resource Program uses the same quality curricular standards as the regular classrooms. However, the differentiated curriculum is varied in content, process, and product as well as is the learning environment. 

Do high MAP or WKCE test scores predict future success in school?
It is interesting to note that simply having high test scores is not necessarily a singularly reliable predictor of future academic success. There are many variables that can affect the relationship between a child’s ability and actual performance. In order to achieve academic success, a child should use effective learning strategies, demonstrate perseverance, and develop a positive attitude toward learning. Research studies have shown that parents are excellent identifiers of “giftedness.” It is important that you trust your own instincts and be your child’s best advocate in evaluating your child’s potential talents. Regardless of the scores or whether or not your child qualifies for gifted services, continue to support your child in identifying and exploring high interest areas. Often these are not even academic areas. Help them develop a positive attitude towards learning, learn self discipline and good work habits, and nurture strong realistic beliefs in his/her own unique human potential. Many students who are successful in high school and college did not qualify for gifted services in the elementary years. Some students who did qualify for gifted services in elementary school are not as successful in high school or college. The results of any intelligence or ability test are always a snapshot of the child at the time of the test. Current brain research indicates that intelligence is not a fixed measurable phenomenon, but instead, multifaceted and changeable. Please keep this in mind as you support your child’s interests and talents.