The Schoolwide Cluster Grouping Model

Abstract

Schools today are experiencing dramatic changes in how they serve gifted students. Gifted programs that have prevailed for years are disappearing. In response, an increasing number of schools are turning to the Schoolwide Cluster Grouping Model (SCGM) to serve their gifted students. When implemented well, the SCGM represents one viable solution for providing effective and consistent gifted services within present budget constraints. Perceptions and practices that largely ignore the learning needs of gifted students carry heavy costs to society. Schools lose students to alternative programs, students lose opportunities for academic growth, and families lose faith in the education system. Instead, the potential of all students needs to be nurtured and developed. Current economic and political realities provide new opportunities to reexamine the ways we can deliver comprehensive and sustainable services for the most capable learners. The SCGM can achieve those goals in a way that is equitable and effective for all students by embedding gifted education services into the school system and increasing the possibility that the inherent needs of all students are understood and embraced. Focusing schools’ attention on the needs of all students can enfranchise gifted students and demonstrate continued support for gifted education in the 21st century.