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Gifted Education Policies


Alabama


State Status: Blue

Governor: Bob Riley
State Association: Alabama Association for Gifted Children
State Definition of "gifted & talented": “Intellectually gifted children and youth are those who perform at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared to others of their age, experience, or environment. These children and youth require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program. Children and youth possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor.”
(Alabama Admin. Code r. 290-8-9-.14)

State Dept. of Ed. - Gifted and Talented: Nina Pearson
State Superintendent: Joseph Morton

Statistics

Dollars allocated for education (2004-2005): $5,897,873,000 (Estimate)
Dollars allocated for education (2005-2006): Unknown
Dollars allocated for Gifted and Talented programming (2005-2006): $0 (local funds only)
Dollars allocated for Gifted and Talented programming (2006-2007): $2,300,000
Dollars allocated for Gifted and Talented programming (2007-2008): $2,337,400
Number of schools offering International Baccalaureate programs (2006-2007): 12
Percentage of all students scoring a 3 or above on Advanced Placement exams (2005-2006): 5.7%
Percentage of all students scoring a 3 or above on Advanced Placement exams (2006-2007): 6.40%
Students enrolled in grades K-12 (2004-2005): 734,058
Students enrolled in grades K-12 (2005-2006): Unknown
Students enrolled in grades K-12 (2006-2007): 743,604
Students identified as Gifted and Talented (2004-2005): 32,390
Students identified as Gifted and Talented (2005-2006): Unknown
Students identified as Gifted and Talented (2006-2007): 32,390
Students who have taken Advanced Placement exams in high school (2005-2006): 3,790
Students who have taken Advanced Placement exams in high school (2006-2007): 4,325

Click here for statistical information from previous years.

Legislation & Funding

Are there colleges/universities in the state that offer courses and/or degrees in gifted education?
Yes Click here for a list of Gifted Education Degree Programs.
Does gifted education legislation exist?
Yes Code of Alabama - Education
Does legislation provide for an education program matched to the student's abilities?
No
Does the legislation mandate that gifted students be served?
Yes
Is identification of gifted students required by state law?
Yes A student can be referred K-12. There is a mandatory Child Find process that requires second grade teachers to observe every child as a potential gifted referral.
Is there funding for gifted programs for the 2007-2008 school year?
Yes
Is there legislation that mandates specialized training in gifted education for teachers of gifted students?
Yes
Was there funding for gifted programs for the 2004 - 2005 school year?
No
Was there funding for gifted programs for the 2005 - 2006 school year?
No According to the Alabama Department of Education, "gifted education is supposed to be included in the formula for 'foundation' monies. Most gifted teachers are funded through local funds."
Do you have any updates on gifted education in this state? Please click here

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Information presented on this page was compiled from a variety of resources, including, but not limited to: The STATE of the States in Gifted Education, a report by the Council of State Directors of Programs for the Gifted and the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC); state departments of education, state gifted associations, informational websites and other organizations. The Davidson Institute for Talent Development has not verified the accuracy of all information and does not warrant its accuracy or fitness of use for any purpose. Users should verify information prior to taking any action. Furthermore, the appearance of selected programs and/or resources does not imply an endorsement or affiliation. Programs and resources are highlighted for informational purposes only.