Gifted Endorsement Program

The Gifted In-Field Endorsement Program is offered through four courses:

Course I - Characteristics
Candidates will acquire knowledge of the characteristics of gifted learners. Cognitive, social-emotional, and behavioral characteristics of gifted children require different instructional designs. A case study will be required. This is the foundation course for the gifted endorsement program.

Course 2 - Assessment of Gifted Students
Instruction will focus on the needs of teachers who, on behalf of local school systems, must implement the state rule pertaining to gifted instruction. The administration of valid assessment strategies will be emphasized. Candidates will receive hands-on instruction and participate in field experiences that require learner involvement and interaction with students.

Course 3 - Methods and Materials for Teaching the Gifted
Candidates will acquire an understanding of instructional methods and materials appropriate for meeting the unique learning needs of gifted students. Strategies for differentiating content, process, product and learning environment will be addressed in this course. Candidates will develop lessons, create and make presentations, and conduct observations.

Course 4 - Curriculum and Program Development
Instruction will be targeted to the needs of teachers who will be expected to plan, develop, modify, implement, and evaluate curriculum that is appropriately differentiated for gifted learners. Candidates will be expected to compare and contrast major curriculum models and instructional techniques and teaching strategies appropriate for gifted learners. The application of current educational theories, policies, and practices and the integration of key learning realms in curriculum development are requisite. Candidates are expected to plan, develop and present a written curriculum unit that is appropriate for gifted students.

• Each course is 50 hours of instructional time (5 PLUs). Attendance at all class meetings is required.
• Each endorsement course offered through the Professional Learning Department at Pioneer RESA is $325, with a minimum enrollment of 15 participants.
• Systems desiring to offer an endorsement cohort in their own system should contact Dr. Anna Brown, Professional Learning Coordinator, at Pioneer RESA for further information.
• All four courses must be completed in the order listed above to apply for Gifted In-Field Endorsement.
• This endorsement must be completed within two years of beginning the program.
  
• Candidates are required to have access to required books (whether through purchase or using a colleague’s). There are also a number of articles that candidates must download.
• Eligibility requirements: Clear renewable Georgia teaching certificate, three years of teaching experience, employed by a Georgia school system, and recommendations of local professional learning director/coordinator and building level administrator.
• Each course has required reading and appropriate assignments, field experiences, and exams.

Application packet available here.