Virginia Beach City Schools unveils comprehensive update on gifted education programs

The Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) School Board Retreat on July 9, 2025, spotlighted significant advancements in the district's gifted education programs. Dr. Crystal Wilkerson, the director of K-12 and gifted programs, presented a comprehensive update that highlighted the unique offerings and strategic enhancements aimed at better serving gifted students.

VBCPS stands out as one of the few districts in Virginia to employ a gifted resource teacher (GRT) in every comprehensive school, ensuring that gifted education is accessible across the board. The district also boasts a standalone school dedicated to gifted students, a rarity in the region. Dr. Wilkerson emphasized the importance of tailored instruction, noting that VBCPS provides specialized services for gifted students in visual arts and dance, alongside traditional academic subjects.

Key changes to the gifted education plan were discussed, including the removal of certain assessment components to streamline the identification process. For instance, the cognitive abilities test (CogAT) will no longer serve as a universal screener for first graders, shifting the focus to second graders for gifted identification. This adjustment aims to enhance the cognitive development of students before they enter the gifted program in third grade.

The presentation also outlined the district's commitment to continuous improvement, with plans to enhance professional development for educators and strengthen communication with families about gifted programming. Dr. Wilkerson expressed pride in the collaborative efforts of the gifted leadership team and the ongoing dedication to meeting the diverse needs of gifted learners.

As VBCPS moves forward, the focus remains on fostering an environment where gifted students can thrive academically and personally, aligning with the district's broader strategic goals. The school board's support is crucial as the district aims to implement these initiatives effectively in the coming years.