From perfectionism to feeling “out of sync,” gifted learners face unique challenges that aren’t always visible. At International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas), we believe these students deserve more than recognition; they deserve support that nurtures their brilliance through challenge, creativity, and compassion. 

This week, we’re busting myths, breaking stereotypes, and celebrating what it means to be gifted.

The Gifted Experience

When you hear the word “gifted,” what comes to mind? Straight A’s? Effortless success? A child who finishes assignments before the rest of the class?

In reality, giftedness is far more complex. Many gifted students struggle with intense emotions, anxiety, and the pressure to always be perfect. They may feel misunderstood or isolated, thinking differently from their peers and experiencing the world on a deeper level.

At ILTexas, we understand that giftedness isn’t just about what a student knows—it’s about how they think, how they learn, and how we can help them thrive both academically and emotionally.

A Tailored Approach

Gifted students don’t always fit one mold. They may show strengths in creativity, leadership, or specific academic areas like math, science, or language arts. That’s why our referral and identification process goes beyond grades and test scores. We consider parent feedback, student work, classroom behavior, and multiple data points to get a complete picture of each student’s potential.

Challenge, Not Busywork

What happens when a student already knows the material?
Too often, gifted students are given extra worksheets or asked to help others. But what they need is a meaningful challenge. ILTexas teachers are trained in strategies like curriculum compacting, acceleration, and differentiated instruction to ensure our gifted students stay engaged and grow.

Learning That Comes to Life

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is one of the many tools we use to ignite a love for learning in our gifted students. Instead of passive learning, our students actively explore real-world problems. Imagine designing and testing bridges to learn about physics and engineering or leading a community project that teaches teamwork, empathy, and critical thinking.

What Gifted Means at ILTexas

According to the Texas Education Code, a gifted student is someone who performs or shows the potential to perform at a remarkably high level of accomplishment compared to peers. At ILTexas, we define giftedness as high performance in general intellectual ability or specific academic areas and we’re committed to supporting those strengths.

Because gifted students deserve more than recognition. They deserve an environment that understands their needs, encourages their growth, and honors their journey.

This G/T Awareness Week, we invite you to see beyond the myths. To recognize that giftedness is not a destination but a journey. At ILTexas, it’s a journey we’re proud to walk alongside every gifted learner.

Learn more about Gifted and Talented Students at ILTexas.