Policy

Federal Definition of Gifted and Talented:

Federal, state, and local regulations and policies governing the education of gifted and talented students vary greatly. In this section, you have the opportunity to view and compare the legislation and policies of various governmental entities.

“Gifted and talented children are those identified by professionally qualified persons, who by virtue of outstanding abilities are capable of high performance. These are children who require differentiated educational programs and/or services beyond those normally provided by the regular school program in order to realize their contribution to self and society.”

“Children capable of high performance include those with demonstrated achievement and/or potential ability in any of the following areas, singly or in combination:

  • General intellectual ability,
  • Specific academic aptitude,
  • Creative or productive thinking,
  • Leadership ability,
  • Visual and performing arts.”

SOURCE: Education of the Gifted and Talented

For additional information on the federal gifted and talented law, see the Marland Report to Congress.

Find Policy Information for Your Location

Select your location’s Gifted & Talented resources website from the list below:

For More Information

GT Discover Advocacy

Read about an analysis of policies designed for gifted and talented youth.

Track state education policy on a wide variety of topics, including gifted and talented education.