Gifted and Talented – East Point Academy

Gifted and Talented Program

The Mission of the East Point Academy Gifted and Talented program is to:

To affirm gifted and talented education as a high priority for East Point Academy
To affirm that acceleration and enrichment of the entire academic program is appropriate
To provide direction to staff and community that places special emphasis on addressing the cognitive and affective needs of high-achieving and potentially high-achieving students
To extend each child’s intellectual boundaries and help all students achieve their highest potential
To ensure that differentiated educational programs and/or services are systematically provided for gifted and talented students at an appropriate level of rigor and accelerated instruction

The Gifted and Talented STEM Program

Building of Science and Math Skills

“Engineering calls for children to apply what they know about science and math—and their learning is enhanced as a result. At the same time, because engineering activities are based on real-world technologies and problems, they help children see how disciplines like math and science are relevant to their lives.”

Classroom Equity

“Research suggests engineering activities help build classroom equity. The engineering design process removes the stigma from failure; instead, failure is an important part of the problem-solving process and a positive way to learn. Equally important, in engineering there’s no single “right” answer; one problem can have many solutions. When classroom instruction includes engineering, all students can see themselves as successful.”

21st Century Skills

“Hands-on, project-based learning is the essence of engineering. As groups of students work together to answer questions like “How large should I make the canopy of this parachute?” or “What material should I use for the blades of my windmill?” they collaborate, think critically and creatively, and communicate with one another.”

Career Success

“Research also shows that when engineering is part of elementary instruction, students become more aware of the diverse opportunities for engineering, science, and technical careers—and they are more likely to see these careers as options they could choose. This finding is important at a time when the number of American college students pursuing engineering education is decreasing. Early introduction to engineering can encourage many capable students—but especially girls and minorities—to consider engineering as a career and take the necessary science and math courses in high school.”

Engaged Citizens

“Finally, consider some of our nation’s most pressing policy issues—energy, healthcare, the environment. Engineering and technological literacy will be critical for all American citizens to make informed decisions in the 21st century.”