Gifted programs can be very beneficial for some students. My oldest child thrived in that environment during elementary and the beginning of middle school. However, that all changed around seventh grade. While gifted programs can offer extra stimulation that children sometimes need, they can also set kids apart from their peers. A child who is held up as an example because of high scores, or one who becomes a “teacher’s pet” because she excels, may see these things in a different light than some might think. At one time, such things seemed good, but as my child grew older, they … Continue reading →