Rock Castle County reports growth in gifted and talented program for 2024 2025 school year

Rockcastle County Schools showcased its commitment to gifted and talented education during a recent special school board meeting, highlighting significant advancements in the program for the 2024-2025 school year. Tarlene, the program coordinator, presented an end-of-year review that underscored the successful implementation of various initiatives aimed at enriching the educational experience for gifted students.

A key highlight from the meeting was the impressive enrollment figures, with 314 identified gifted and talented students across the district, alongside 106 primary talent pool students in the early grades. Tarlene detailed the rigorous testing process that involved assessing every third and fourth grader in Rockcastle County, utilizing tools like Terra Nova and Enview to ensure comprehensive identification of student potential.

The meeting also revealed the completion of three critical reports that validated the program's effectiveness. These included assessments of local data against state benchmarks, ensuring that the district met all necessary criteria for gifted education services. Tarlene emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring, stating, "I keep a watch list of students who don’t quite make it," ensuring that no potential talent goes unnoticed.

In a notable development, Tarlene was invited to utilize a larger space at the area technology center, equipped with advanced resources like 3D printers and virtual reality headsets. This new environment not only enhances the learning experience but also fosters collaboration with various subject experts, enriching the program's offerings.

The meeting concluded with Tarlene sharing exciting opportunities for students, including field trips to the HOTT expo at Somerset Community College and tours of KET, which provided students with insights into health science and business technology careers. These initiatives reflect the district's proactive approach to engaging gifted students and preparing them for future success.

As Rockcastle County Schools continues to prioritize gifted education, the community can anticipate further developments that will enhance learning opportunities and support for its talented youth.