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Thomas Jefferson Middle School proposes 'Ignite' pilot to expand gifted-and-talented services
Summary
Thomas Jefferson Middle School principal Dr. Christie Lewis presented a 2025–26 pilot “Ignite” program to identify and serve 20–25 sixth‑grade gifted students with accelerated coursework, mentorships and enrichment; the proposal is locally funded and will be evaluated as a pilot before expansion.
Thomas Jefferson Middle School Principal Dr. Christie Lewis on April 24 presented a proposal to the Port Arthur Independent School District Board of Trustees for a pilot gifted‑and‑talented program called Ignite that would start with about 20–25 sixth graders in 2025–26.
Lewis told the board the program — Ignite (Inspiring Growth, Nurturing Innovation, Talent and Excellence) — is intended as a small, monitored pilot to provide advanced, differentiated instruction, project‑based learning, mentorships and accelerated pace options so high‑ability students do not become disengaged in mixed‑ability classes. "Exposure expands expectations," Lewis said, adding the program will include ability grouping, passion projects, Socratic seminars and options for advanced high‑school credits later in middle school.
The principal said the pilot will include a mix of academic and enrichment offerings: advanced visual‑arts coursework, a nine‑week rotation of lifetime sports (flag football, volleyball,…
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