Talented and Gifted Program (Advanced Learners)

Talented and Gifted programming has its foundations within classrooms. The basis of effective education in Stoughton schools is rigorous classroom instruction, a positive learning environment, and school-wide support. All students are expected to receive instruction that meets state standards and district benchmarks (goals).

Classroom teachers recognize that each child learns at a different depth and pace, which may require curricular adaptations. Differentiation of instruction is a tool used by teachers to meet varying student needs. In most cases, differentiation strategies are integrated throughout the curricular areas rather than occurring as special events.

Our Talented and Gifted model is grounded in the State of Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction's Foundations for Gifted Education in Wisconsin. The foundations grew out of Wisconsin's Standard (t) legislation which outlines compliances for K-12 gifted education that all public school districts must meet.

Principles and Beliefs

  • Identification of students with exceptional needs is linked with appropriate educational programming at all levels using a collaborative process.
  • Students may have programming needs in one area or in multiple areas, which may include: general intellectual, specific academic, leadership, creativity, and visual/performing arts.
  • Students’ needs may emerge at varying times and fluctuate throughout their K-12 schooling and each child is entitled to appropriate and varied options in response to their changing needs.
  • Effective TAG programming addresses the social-emotional needs of students.
  • Students are encouraged to be active and responsible in their learning.
  • Gifted education is a partnership between home, school, and at times the greater community.