What is Giftedness? 




In the Denver Public Schools, “gifted and talented children” means those students whose demonstrated abilities, talents and/or potential for accomplishment are so exceptional or developmentally advanced that they require special provisions to meet their educational needs. These students perform, or show the potential of performing, at remarkably high levels in general intellectual ability, specific academic aptitude or specific talent aptitude when compared with others of their age and experience. Gifted and talented children are present in all student groups, regardless of gender, disability, English language proficiency, economic status, ethnic or cultural background.

For information on how a student could be identified in any of the areas listed below, please click on the specific area.

General Intellectual Ability

Specific Academic Aptitude


       Reading
  • Writing
  • Math
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • World Language



Specific Talent Aptitude

  • Visual Arts
  • Performing Arts
  • Music
  • Dance
  • Psychomotor
  • Creativity
  • Leadership

 Available Programs:  The Gifted and Talented Department in Denver Public Schools provides services to gifted/high potential students and their families by overseeing the Gifted and Highly Gifted identification process, approving schools’ gifted plans and programs in order to support best practice and ensure compliance, assessment, curriculum development, professional development, advocacy, and incorporating state/national standards. Students will be assessed for gifted identification starting in kindergarten.

Additionally, the department assesses and qualifies students for the Advanced Kindergarten program.  Students who qualify for Advanced Kindergarten are not identified as gifted/talented.  Students will be assessed for gifted identification starting in kindergarten.