Gifted Identification and Framework for Talent (GIFT)

The Newark Board of Education is committed to identifying and nurturing the unique strengths, talents, and potential of all students. Our Gifted & Talented (G&T) services—GIFT: Gifted Identification and Framework for Talent—supports intellectually, creatively, and academically advanced learners across all content areas, including STEM, Humanities, Visual & Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Leadership.

Our Vision

To cultivate a nationally recognized gifted services in Newark Public Schools that champions academic excellence, equity, and innovation empowering gifted learners to thrive locally and lead globally.

Our Mission

To provide equitable, inclusive, and engaging opportunities that challenge and inspire gifted learners while supporting their social-emotional development and diverse learning profiles.

K-8 Identification Process – The GIFT Framework

Step 1: Multiple Measures of Identification

  • Administrator/Teacher Nomination Form
  • Parent/Guardian Nomination Form
  • Student Self-Nomination Form
  • All 2nd grade students will participate in annual Spring cognitive assessments (e.g., CogAT) to broaden the pool of potential candidates for GIFT services. While these results will inform the identification process, they do not guarantee entry. Students must still undergo the GIFT Committee’s vetting process, which considers multiple measures to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
  • Academic Data (e.g., NJSLA, benchmarks)
  • Work Samples, Portfolios, and Observational Data

Step 2: GIFT Committee Review

  • Committees meet monthly at each school
  • Review Student Observation Tool
  • Evaluate student strengths using a holistic, equity-focused lens
  • Determine eligibility and recommend supports
  • Timeline: Within 20 days of receiving a teacher, student, or parent nomination, the GIFT Committee will provide a written response explaining the identification process, including committee review, evidence gathering, and data collection.
  • The committee then has 90 days from the date of the nomination to determine eligibility for GIFT services.

Step 3: GIFT Committee Notification & Service Planning

  • Families and teachers are notified of identification outcomes
  • Identified students receive curriculum augmentation
  • Students access enrichment, mentorship, or advanced learning opportunities
  • If applicable, the notification will also include the scheduled date for the CogAT assessment

Step 4: School Based Curriculum Augmentation & Enrichment

  • Curriculum modifications, for example, The Depth & Complexity Framework or enrichment activities in their regular classrooms.
  • Pull-out with the Academic Interventionist.
  • Access to school-based Gifted & Talented opportunities.

*Students must have enrichment opportunities integrated into the regular school day; however, afterschool enrichment activities may also be included as part of their GIFT services.

Gifted & Talented Opportunities for Grades 9–12

The GIFT framework continues through high school with enhanced academic, leadership, and career exploration opportunities tailored to gifted and advanced learners. Students in Grades 9–12 have access to:

  • Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and The International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses: A robust selection of advanced coursework across disciplines to challenge high-achieving students.
  • Dual Enrollment: Partnerships with local colleges and universities enable students to earn college credit while still in high school, with support for credit transfer and success in rigorous coursework.
  • Independent Study: Personalized learning paths that allow students to design projects around their interests, often guided by mentors or industry professionals.
  • Enrichment Opportunities: Participation in seminars, guest lectures, and specialized workshops that foster interdisciplinary exploration and critical thinking.
  • Research & Internships: Students can pursue research with faculty or professionals and gain real-world experience through internships aligned with their academic passions.
  • Competitions & Olympiads: Encouragement and support to participate in national and international academic contests.
  • Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead within the school community through student government, service learning, and leadership institutes.
  • Mentorship Programs: Connections with teachers, professionals, or alumni for academic and personal development guidance.
  • Specialized Extracurriculars: Clubs and programs in STEM, humanities, the arts, and more—including pathways that reflect talent-based admissions into advanced programs.
  • College & Career Guidance: Dedicated counseling and exposure to diverse post-secondary and career pathways through guest speakers, industry visits, and career fairs.
  • Recognition Programs: Eligibility for National Honor Society and other achievement-based honors.

Complaint/Appeals Process

In accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:8-3.1, parents or guardians may file a written complaint if they believe gifted and talented services are not being implemented in compliance with state regulations.

Any individual who believes that the district has not complied with the provisions of the law or administrative code related to gifted and talented services may file a complaint.

Steps to File an Appeal:

  1. Submit a written request to the School Principal
  2. The school will respond within 10 school days
  3. If unresolved, escalate to the Office of Teaching & Learning: gifted@nullnps.k12.nj.us
  4. Final appeals may be submitted to the Superintendent

If the complaint is not resolved to the individual’s satisfaction or the individual is not satisfied by the written decision of the board, the individual may then file a petition of appeal of the board’s written decision to the Commissioner of Education through the Office of Controversies and Disputes in accordance with law (N.J.S.A. 18A:6-9) and the procedures set forth in State Board of Education regulations.

Resources

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning

Sylvia Esteves
sesetves@nullnps.k12.nj.us

Gifted & Talented Services Coordinator

Jennifer Killeen
Supervisor, Office of Bilingual
jkilleen@nullnps.k12.nj.us

Legal References: