Although the statistics vary somewhat, it is generally accepted that approximately 2 per cent of

the population is gifted. While considerable time and resources are directed toward the education

of special needs students, gifted students are often underserved. Inclusive classroom settings include

students with an increasingly wide variety of learning needs. Within this reality, the needs of

gifted learners are not being recognized or met aseffectively as they could be.

teachers’ education of gifted and talented students by providing professional development and

influencing policies related to their needs. On the March 8 and 9 weekend, the executive

council priorities and develop a three-year action plan. The group identified several key goals

designed to guide the council’s work over the next three years. The goals are to establish and

maintain networks with organizations whose focus is increasing learning opportunities for gifted

students, to undertake initiatives based on the needs of special education teachers, to recommend

policy relating to gifted education, to provide appropriate and timely learning opportunities

and resources for teachers, and to promote the importance of gifted education in inclusive settings.

This small group of dedicated professionals wants to encourage you to join their council so that you

can receive their timely newsletter, professional journal, conference information and other

resources. Visit the GTEC website at