First Advisor
Omdal, Stuart
Document Type
Dissertation
Date Created
12-1-2013
Department
College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Special Education, Special Education Student Work
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to build an understanding of what should be present in schools to meet the academic growth needs of gifted middle-level learners. In times of financial difficulty it is important that educators find ways to meet the needs of all students while afforded little resources to do so. While understandable that finances be provided for struggling students, it should not be at the expense of those who come to school with content mastery already achieved but still eager to learn new material. The results of this study indicate that meeting the academic, high growth needs of gifted learners (and others) is basically a cost neutral focus on five, non-prioritized areas. First, programming that puts core content at the forefront, with high expectations for academics and behaviors, carried out with excellent differentiated instruction by content teachers who have autonomy in what they teach and how they teach it. A second area is leadership that follows a coaching model and trusts in the professional ability of the teachers. Third is school culture, as results indicate that positivity and happiness is contagious and sets the stage for student growth. The final two areas are small schools and the teachers themselves. Small schools foster trust and relationships among the greater community, while teachers in these high growth schools are dedicated and passionate people who will do whatever it takes to ensure that all students are successful.
Abstract Format
html
Keywords
Middle school education; Educational leadership; Gifted education; Gifted children -- Education (Middle school) -- United States.; Talented students -- Education -- United States.; Academic growth
Extent
201 pages
Local Identifiers
Pfeiffer_unco_0161D_10300
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by author.
Digital Origin
Born digital
Recommended Citation
Pfeiffer, Linda Elizabeth, "Pursuit of high academic growth for gifted middle level learners" (2013). Dissertations. 226.
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/dissertations/226