A classroom that provides time, space and structure for students to self-direct their learning. An accelerated curriculum that focuses on college and career readiness. An opportunity for students to explore their passions and better understand who they are. 

That’s exactly what Ben and Emily Wilson wanted for their children’s education.

Parents of three daughters in Irving ISD, Ben and Emily had their two youngest- Julia and Grace- test for the district’s Gifted and Talented (GT) program. 

Julia, now a 7th grader, at Johnson Middle School and Grace, a sophomore at MacArthur High School, have both been in the GT program for several years. 

Ben and Emily are absolutely thrilled with their daughters’ experience.

“There are so many benefits of GT,” says Ben. “The teachers are amazing across the board. They encourage student creativity and put a lot of effort into teaching topics in a variety of ways. And my daughters have built great friendships because the GT students have been in the same classes for years.”

GT is an accelerated program for students starting as early as kindergarten through twelfth grade. The program provides the structure for students to move at their own pace, so students who already understand content can move ahead. Many students find themselves with quite a few credits moving into high school and college. 

And the GT program has proven successful. Students like Julia and Grace who continue in GT throughout high school are better prepared for college and career. 

“Students who excel in school are much more likely to attend college,” says Holley Nasky, coordinator of Gifted and Talented. “GT allows students to spend time finding their passions. This helps students have a better idea of their major in college, which continues their accelerated educational path.”

For parents like Ben and Emily who are interested in an accelerated option for their child, they can learn more at the upcoming parent webinars hosted by the Gifted Department. These virtual sessions begin June 11 through August 6 and are available in both English and Spanish. Parents can attend as many webinars as they want. 

Sessions will cover the following topics:

  • June 11 at 5:30 p.m. Passion-based Learning in the Summer (Research)
  • June 18 at 5:30 p.m.  College Testing
  • June 25 at 5:30 p.m. Overexcitabilities among Gifted Students
  • July 16 at 5:30 p.m. The College Application Journey
  • July 23 at 5:30 p.m. Impostor Syndrome and How to Fail Successfully
  • July 30 at 5:30 p.m. GT Awareness Session – Come Learn about our Program
  • August 6 at 5:30 p.m. Why AP?

To register, complete the Webinar Form. If you have questions regarding the webinars or the GT program, contact HolleyNasky@IrvingISD.net.