This article describes competitions across a range of curricular areas that develop students' problem solving skills by setting authentic, real-world tasks. As individuals or members of a team, students in these competitions are challenged with finding solutions to problems faced not only in today's scientific and technological world, but also in…

The purpose of the current study was to determine the number of gifted students with disabilities identified and served in gifted education programs in the state of Mississippi. Four categories of giftedness are set forth in the regulations for gifted programs are: (1) Intellectually gifted children refers to children and youth who are found to…

Research indicates that ongoing, high-quality staff development is essential to achieving significant standards-based reform. Currently, the majority of teachers do not regularly participate in staff development practices in the United States. Staff development decisions have traditionally been made by school administrators to meet the needs of…

Leadership has been characterized by particular personal qualities and traits, specifically one?s ability to influence others? thoughts, energies, emotions, feelings, or behaviors within the scope of emergent leadership (Farrall & Kronberg, 1996). Based on self organization patterns of groups, a leader emerges while other group members move into…

Once identified, students should be given a wide variety of opportunities to develop their leadership potential in the classroom. This article offers information on rating scales, programs, and other resources that can be used in implementing leadership education into the gifted classroom. One rating scale, The Leadership Skills Inventory (LSI),…

The purpose of this study was to determine public support for gifted education in the state of Mississippi. The information garnered from the survey was used to inform the general public and specific groups as to the degree of support held for the public education of gifted children and youth. A 21-question instrument from a previous study was…

This article compiles information from program web sites, articles, and interviews with experts to describe the history and current status of the Advanced Placement program and the International Baccalaureate program. The development of the Pre-AP program, the Primary Years program, and the Middle Years program is discussed. (Contains references.)…

A survey of 47 graduate programs and gifted education centers found the largest contingency of those cited as influential in gifted education were noted for their influences in curriculum development, followed by those who have contributed to a better understanding of students' emotional and social needs. Cited persons are listed. (Contains 10…

This article discusses using student products to facilitate a strong link between gifted education and the community to secure support and increase understanding for the necessity of stimulating and enriching our nation's exceptional children. Guidelines for displaying products and for presenting products to authentic audiences are provided.…

Offers strategies for teachers of the gifted to increase their budgets through fund development, including annual giving, capital campaigns, endowments, and planned giving, such as irrevocable and revocable charitable gifts. Teachers are urged to do research, follow procedures, get organized, keep accurate records, appoint strong leadership, and…

Offers guidance for parents, teachers, and other advocates for gifted education on the use of public relations to increase local, state, and national support. Topics covered include the importance of using the media, state-level strategies, targeting the audience, planning a public-relations campaign, and some possible print and non-print media…

Discusses strategies for fundraising for gifted-education programs. Advocates are urged to get necessary permission and legal advice, select a creative idea for fundraising, set a goal, focus on an appropriate timeline for planning and implementing, drafting volunteers, promoting the event, and evaluating success. (CR)

Discusses the use of competitions to motivate scientifically gifted students to further develop their abilities. Before scheduling a competition, teachers are urged to consider the type of project, ability to work at home or at school, curriculum fit, and individual pace and style. Seven science competitions are profiled. (CR)

Reports results of a survey of states concerning state provisions for mediation to settle disputes in gifted education. It finds that 21 states have such provisions at either the state level or as a local option. Advocates for gifted education are urged to publicize the availability of mediation services and encourage staff development in its use.…

Describes how teachers of the gifted can make the study of mathematics dynamic, innovative, and creative through the exploration of problem-solving skills and real-life applications. Math competitions and general academic competitions that include mathematics for elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools are highlighted. (CR)