State Associations for Gifted/Talented Education

Abstract

With continued national emphasis on excellence in education, an increasing number of new parent/educator advocacy associations for gifted and talented education have been formed. A national survey was conducted to determine membership status, dues, and staffing patterns of state associations for the gifted and to gather information about services and programs available for gifted children, their parents, and teachers. Membership ranges between 50 and 6,000 and consists mostly of parents and educators togefher. With the exception of 10 states, the G/T advocacy groups are organized, led, and managed by volunteers. Most associations publish a quarterly newsletter, and several associations distribute print material for parents on the nature and needs of gifted children and provide in-service for new and experienced teachers of the gifted. Each state association holds an annual state-wide conference with keynote speakers and numerous break-out sessions. Annual awards in various categories are presented at the conferences.