Too often, standardized tests fail to identify the talented students whose first language isn’t English.
That’s why, on Nov. 7, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) issued new guidelines to help districts find and provide appropriate opportunities to enhance the education of gifted and talented students who are English Language Learners (ELL).
As required by state legislation (P.L. 2017, c.171), the N.J. Commissioner of Education was required to develop guidance on identifying English Language Learners (ELLs) for gifted and talented programs.
To assist school districts in meeting the expectations of the legislation, the NJDOE developed a guidance document, Gifted and Talented ELLs.
Specifically, Gifted and Talented ELLs provides clarification on the following:
- How should ELLs be identified for gifted and talented programs?
- What are some potential challenges of identifying gifted ELLs?
- What professional development and collaboration among teachers is needed?
The NJDOE offers support to school districts with the implementation of programs and services for gifted and talented ELLs. If you have any questions, please contact ell@doe.nj.gov.