WELCOME to Gifted Education at CGS!
According to Article 9B of North Carolina General Statues: “The General Assembly believes the public schools should challenge all students to aim for academic excellence and that academically or intellectually gifted students perform or show the potential to perform at substantially high levels of accomplishment when compared with others of their age, experience, or environment. Academically or intellectually gifted students exhibit high performance capability in intellectual areas, specific academic fields, or in both intellectual areas and specific academic fields. Academically or intellectually gifted students require differentiated educational services beyond those ordinarily provided by the regular educational program. Outstanding abilities are present in students from all cultural groups, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor. (1996, 2nd Ex. Sess., c. 18, s. 18.24(f).)”
Pending approval from the state, we are implementing a new AIG plan to identify and to address the academic and social and emotional needs of our students under these guidelines. We are excited to begin this new AIG plan, and we look forward to the incredible opportunities that await our school community. Please check out the links for information and additional resources related to gifted education.
AIG Coordinator—Lisa Wilson, M.Ed. in Gifted Education
ADDITIONAL AIG RESOURCES:
Atlas Obscura (Some content is controversial and may not be suitable for younger students)
This website touts itself as “the definitive guide to the world’s hidden wonders”, and it has a ton of information. Travel the world—both here and abroad—to see unique historical locations and curious places and examine multiple perspectives. Lots of topics are available for all ages; however, some articles and information are not recommended for younger students due to their mature content.
Davidson Institute
This database has an extensive list of resources for students and parents, as well as teachers and educators. A closer look at the articles and resources is most informative.
Hoagies’ Gifted Education Page
On Hoagies’ Gifted Education Page there are too many resources to list here, but it is well worth exploring. These community resources are specially designed for students, parents, and educators, and there is everything from current research articles to learning activities.
Mensa Foundation
Sponsored by the Mensa Foundation, this website provides learning links for achieving, reading, teaching, and playing. Their website contains information for students, parents, and teachers, and it is a great starting point for resources.
NCAGT – North Carolina Association for the Gifted and Talented
The official website of North Carolina Association for the Gifted and Talented (NCAGT) has resource links for parents and teachers. It includes support resources for meeting the social and emotional needs of gifted students.
NC SCIFEST
The North Carolina Science Festival, along with similar events, creates a vibrant and inviting atmosphere to celebrate science, making it accessible and enjoyable for attendees of all ages. By fostering a positive experience around scientific exploration, the Festival not only inspires children to consider careers in STEM fields but also encourages local businesses to invest in North Carolina’s scientific and educational initiatives, ultimately enhancing the state’s commitment to science and innovation.
North Carolina Governor’s School
The North Carolina Governor’s School is an enriching four-week summer program designed for gifted and talented high school students, offering an interdisciplinary approach that combines academics, arts, and specialized courses across two campuses. The curriculum emphasizes the exploration of innovative ideas without the pressure of grades or testing, fostering an environment of creativity and intellectual growth. Admission is competitive, requiring nominations from public or non-public school units, ensuring that a diverse and highly capable group of students are selected to participate.
North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics
The North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) aims to enhance the landscape of secondary STEM education by providing innovative and collaborative opportunities that foster excellence in public education. Its mission is to empower students and communities by inspiring and challenging them to design their futures, thereby contributing to the advancement of the state, nation, and world through broad access to exemplary educational programs.
NC State College of Engineering
Summer day camps for elementary school students provide an engaging and interactive experience where campers learn about the role of engineers in society. Through collaborative group activities, hands-on investigations, and design challenges, participants explore the Engineering Design Process in a fun and creative way. Each year introduces new activities, ensuring that students gain a fresh and unique perspective on engineering while fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Summer day camps for middle school students offer an exciting opportunity for campers to collaboratively explore the field of engineering and its societal impact. Through hands-on, creative investigations and design challenges, participants gain practical experience in engineering while developing critical thinking and teamwork skills. Each year introduces fresh activities that provide unique insights into the Engineering Design Process, helping students engage actively with the concepts and fostering a deeper understanding of engineering principles.
The College of Engineering at NC State University hosts summer day camps for rising 9th and 10th grade high school students, providing a comprehensive introduction to the field of engineering. These week-long, multidisciplinary camps allow campers to engage in introductory activities before transitioning to collaborative team-oriented challenge projects. Participants explore the problem-solving methods utilized by engineers, discover the impact of computer science on society, and learn how entrepreneurs innovate solutions to meet changing needs, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for engineering and technology.
The College of Engineering at NC State University offers summer residential camps for rising 11th and 12th grade high school students, allowing them to immerse themselves in the field of engineering while experiencing college life on campus. Participants reside in university housing and have the opportunity to delve deeper into a specific engineering discipline, engaging in hands-on projects, collaborative learning, and networking with peers and faculty. This unique program not only enhances students’ engineering knowledge but also provides a taste of what it’s like to live and study at a university, preparing them for their future academic journeys.
School of Life – YouTube Channel
According to their website, “The School of Life is dedicated to exploring the great questions of emotional and psychological life.” This link to their youtube channel includes videos on thousands of topics, including questions related to social and emotional needs and philosophical questions.
Science Friday
Science Friday is the website created by the Science Friday Initiative, a non-profit organization, with topics ranging from science and mathematics to history, art and culture. It includes written articles and podcasts in thought-provoking and relevant issues and themes. A special feature is the ability to select specific grade levels in addition to the content material.
TEDed
This website is part of the familiar “Ted Talk” series, but it is specifically tailored to students, parents, and educators. Currently one of their spotlight features is “Earth School,” student web quests that promise to “celebrate, explore, and connect to nature.”
The Kids Should See This
This is a great website to inspire and spark creative energy and natural curiosity. The information is divided into categories that include the arts, science, technology, music, culture, nature, food, space, mathematics, DIY, animation, and even a random category. Lots to see and learn!
United States Senate Youth Program Accepting Applications
Applications are open for the U.S. Senate Youth Program for high school juniors and seniors. Two student delegates and two alternates will be selected to represent North Carolina, meet high-ranking government officials and participate in education, leadership and public service activities during Washington Week, March 1-8, 2025. Each delegate will also receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship.
Learn more and apply for the United States Senate Youth Program.
UNCSA High School Visual Arts Applications Available for 2025-26 Academic Year
UNC School of the Arts (UNCSA) Visual Arts Program is a residential program designed for high school juniors and seniors who have an artistic interest, dedication and enthusiasm they wish to pursue in a structured course of study. Learn more about the program.
Tuition is provided free of charge for in-state high school students, and the majority of their other educational costs (e.g., textbooks, health and wellness services, room and meal plan, activities, etc.) are covered by the North Carolina High School Artists Grant. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
Rising high school juniors or seniors are encouraged to apply here.
