We utilize a range of multiple criteria to identify and serve our students who have gifted characteristics and needs. We match the support with their strengths, while addressing any additional challenges as needed. Being gifted can create a need for additional high-level educational challenges and access to acceleration, which is offered as part of the SRCS format for every student who is ready for the next challenge. But, as being gifted does not always mean the same as being high achieving, we do not limit gifted program options to only those gifted students who achieve at the highest levels in all classes. Giftedness is not limited to or defined by specific academic performance at Solid Rock. By raising the bar in individualized ways for each student, we allow for constant individualized growth. Education is a journey and we set new goals for achievement as we go.
We recognize that some gifted students need completely different ways of accessing information, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach in a “program” setting. SRCS teachers support gifted learning needs with project-based learning opportunities, as well as independent research and topic exploration in alignment with student interests and passions, and innovative options that allow for creative expression and flexibility.
The things that make Solid Rock unique for all learners, make it a special place for gifted students to grow and thrive at their own pace, no matter what their talent areas may (or may not) be. Every student receives individual attention, with regular formal and informal evaluations based on their strengths and challenges. This enables flexibility in placement and continuous support throughout the year, from kindergarten through college levels, for all ages and stages. Students who are gifted are placed in classes with other gifted students through an inclusion cluster model, and each student has a special plan for achievement that is reviewed on a regular basis, unlike state-required education plans (EPs) that may or may not be utilized on a regular basis in the public school system.
Solid Rock allows all students to participate in multi-period academic days Mondays through Thursdays, which allows students constant access to teachers who are specialists in their fields. And Fridays are reserved for engaging, full-day enrichment opportunities such as field trips, community speakers, and multiple hands-on projects that are integrated with the arts, STEM, and physical education topics.
All teachers at SRCS continue to receive gifted education training above and beyond what is required in the public school system for a gifted endorsement, including information blasts on up-to-date research from the field, as well as training and workshops. Parents and family members of students who are gifted are also invited to join in community training and events, which include guest speakers, newsletters on what our school is doing for gifted and other special needs students, shared student work samples, and resource links.
SRCS uses many different resources and formats based on the best practices to facilitate learning, including elements from Joseph Renzulli, Carol Dweck, Maria Montessori, Marzano, and other experts in the field. Our teacher training in gifted education is based on research from education and psychology experts such as Dr. Susan Daniels, Dr. James T. Webb, Dr. Donna Ford, Dr. Joy Lawson Davis, Dr. Karen Silverman, Dr. Richard Cash and more.
SRCS is excited to announce that the former Florida State Gifted Education Specialist, former president of the Florida Association for the Gifted (FLAG), and former director on the SENG board of directors, Kathleen Casper, JD, will be providing training and support to our staff throughout the year.
At SRCS we know that being gifted is not just about what a child can do- it’s who they are. And gifted and twice exceptional children are welcomed and supported here.
