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Grade Level: Middle School

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  • Organizations: Competitions

    Academic Triathlon
    U.S. Academic Triathlon is a five-person challenge for students grades 5 through 12. The Triathlon rewards strong performance in the areas of general intellect; specific academic abilities; leadership and psycho-social dynamics; visual and performing arts; and creative/productive thinking.
    FIRST - Robotics Competition
    FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a multinational non-profit organization that sponsors this competition, which teams professional and high school students to solve engineering problems. Get a hands-on, inside look at the engineering profession by designing, assembling and testing a robot.
    Math Kangaroo in USA
    Math Kangaroo is a popular international not-selective competition in mathematics for students in grades 1 through 12. The competition takes the form of a multiple choice test. Each participant is seen as a winner and receives recognition and gifts on test day.
    MATHCOUNTS
    MATHCOUNTS is a national math coaching and competition program that promotes middle school mathematics achievement through grassroots involvement in every U.S. state and territory. With over 20 years of experience, MATHCOUNTS is one of the country's largest and most successful education partnerships involving volunteers, educators, industry sponsors and students.
    Meridian Stories
    Meridian Stories is a Maine-based non-profit founded in 2011. Every year, Meridian Stories offers 20 digital storytelling competitions in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and History for teams of students in middle and high schools. Schools register for the program by paying an annual subscription rate that provides access to all 20 challenges and the capacity to compete with other schools in the Meridian community. Teams work collaboratively over a three to four week period to complete their media production and upload them to the Meridian site. While Meridian Stories is designed for use by the whole school, the local programs for the Gifted and Talented community of students have been its biggest advocates.
    National History Bee
    The National History Bee is a history competition for elementary and middle school students. Participating students progress from the school level to the regional level and finally to the national level until one student is crowned the National History Bee Champion.
    National Number Knockout Math Competition (N2K)
    The National Number Knockout (N2K) is an annual calculating competition. The goal of N2K is to improve the calculating speed and accuracy of students across the nation through an easy-to-learn game. Students 9 to 14 years old are invited to enter for a chance to for a monetary grand prize as well as a prize for their teacher.
    You Be The Chemist Challenge
    The You Be The Chemist Challenge is an exciting academic contest that uses the drama of competition to encourage grade 5‒8 students to explore important chemistry concepts, scientific theories, and laboratory safety. The Challenge operates on three competitive levels: local, state, and national. The top student from each state wins an expenses-paid trip to the National Challenge in Philadelphia in June.

  • Organizations: Local

    Engineering Minds (Tampa, FL)
    Engineering Minds is an engineering education program teaching theory, application, and career skills to intellectually gifted middle and high school students. Saturday, weekly, and summer workshops are offered and include high level technical discussions and videos on topics such as artificial intelligence, quantum mechanics, entrepreneurship, intellectual property, and much more.
    Michigan Math Circle (Ann Arbor, MI)
    The Michigan Math Circle welcomes high school and middle school students to the Michigan Ann Arbor campus on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8 for lectures on and discussions about mathematics.
    Prep for Prep
    Prep for Prep develops ethical and effective leaders who reflect our diverse society for the enduring benefit of all. Prep identifies talented students from minority group backgrounds, prepares them for placement in independent schools, and provides a sense of community, peer support, critical post-placement services, and a range of leadership development opportunities.
    The Arbor Learning Community (Southern California)
    The Arbor Learning Community is a gifted-friendly, non-profit, secular homeschool organization serving elementary, middle and high school students in Southern California. The Arbor offers both academic and enrichment classes and specializes in experiences that are difficult to simulate at home, such as literature discussions, science labs, robotics, foreign language conversation, performing arts, and much more. Classes are offered year-round and are kept small so that students receive individualized attention. Non-homeschooled students are welcome during summer classes as well. A parent familiar with the needs of profoundly gifted (PG) students, the Arbor Learning founder created this organization to provide an educational environment where unique individuals, including PG, visual-spatial and 2e learners, feel comfortable being themselves.

  • Organizations: National

    All About Learning
    All About Learning harnesses the motivational effects of video game making, renewable energy, and engineering education for students using their LEGO® kits to teach science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts and educational skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, agility and adaptability, curiosity and imagination. All About Learning works with summer camps and school enrichment programs providing classes for kids throughout the United States.
    Ascanius: The Youth Classics Institute
    Ascanius: The Youth Classics Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the knowledge of and inspiring lifelong learning about Latin, Greek, and the ancient Greco-Roman world, especially at the elementary and middle school levels. To accomplish its goals, Ascanius maintains a number of programs. The centerpiece of the Institute is its student program, known as LatinSummer, a summer enrichment program.
    Beast Academy - Art of Problem Solving (AoPS)
    Beast Academy, a project from the Art of Problem Solving (AoPS), provides a full, rigorous and entertaining curriculum for aspiring math students in grades two through five. Four fully-illustrated guides per grade provide complete lessons, delivered by the Beast Academy instructors in an engaging comic book style. All Beast Academy books are aligned to national Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Beast Academy also now has a new online learning system for elementary school math that provides over 600 lessons, 10,000 problems, and access to the digital versions of the Beast Academy Guide books.
    Carmel Institute
    An independent study program for homeschooled students, Carmel Institute guides junior high and high school students through project-based, multidisciplinary curricula that is fully individualized to meet each student's interests and learning needs. The online school mentors students through individualized, multi-disciplinary, project-based curriculum that integrates the theory and practice of STEM into all core subject areas. Carmel Institute offers direct one-on-one instruction, supplemented with peer-to-peer interaction on collaborative projects.
    Carnegie Science Center - Girls Math and Science Partnership (GMSP)
    The Girls, Math & Science Partnership (GMSP) was created to address issues regarding girls, their participation in science, and the expansion of their opportunities in and influence on the science and technology workforce. Working with girls ages 11-17, their teachers, parents, and mentors, GMSP draws organizations, stakeholders, and communities together in an effort to ensure that girls succeed in math and science.
    EEME - electronics
    EEME makes hands-on project kits paired with an online video curricula to teach 7-12 year old kids electronics. Their goal is to nurture the curiosity & critical thinking kids need for the science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) opportunities of tomorrow.
    NASA Virtual Skies
    Explore the exciting worlds of aviation technology and air traffic management. In each of the six content Modules students will acquire and employ decision-making and collaborative skills while applying principles of algebra, geometry and calculus. Each section includes on-line activities complemented by downloadable print materials (PDF files) that can be used in the classroom to supplement the geography, mathematics and science concepts.
    U.S. Performing Arts Camps
    U.S. Performing Arts Camps are intensive conservatory-style summer camps designed for middle and high school students between the ages of 11-18. The camps are located at some of the finest universities in the country and many of these theater, dance, film and television departments direct the programs themselves. The camps offer the opportunity to experience campus life while interacting with professors and professionals. Exposure to a campus setting adds a stimulating, cultural dimension to a camper's experience, and provides a secure, safe environment.
    Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!)
    The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) is a year-long class that transforms middle and high school students into confident entrepreneurs. During the class, students develop business ideas, write business plans, conduct market research, pitch their plans to a panel of investors, and actually launch and run their own real, legal, fully formed companies and social movements. Founded in 2004 at the University of Rochester with support from the Kaufmann Foundation, the Young Entrepreneurs Academy today serves thousands of students in 168 communities across America. In 2011, the United States Chamber of Commerce Foundation became a national sponsor and partner of the Academy to help celebrate the spirit of enterprise among today's youth and tomorrow’s future leaders.
    Youth Digital
    Youth Digital provides online computer science classes for students 8 to 14 years old to teach them how to code, design, develop and create with technology. Youth Digital’s learning platform provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that is fun, highly interactive and extremely effective. Students watch videos, respond to questions, earn badges, complete quizzes, and attempt challenging assignments as they step toward mastering critical technology skills and professional-level software. Students can learn to code, program in Java, make Mods for Minecraft®, animate their own movies, design and print in 3D, develop their own mobile apps, create video games, and more.

  • Organizations: State

    College of Professional and Continuing Studies - Programs for 6th-8th Graders (Norman, OK)
    During the school year, Precollegiate Programs offers gifted and talented workshops for Oklahoma schools’ gifted and talented programs. Precollegiate Programs also offers a one-day Model United Nations workshop that prepares students for the High School Model United Nations of the Southwest conference held in April for high school students. During the summer months, Precollegiate Programs has several camps that are both fee and non-fee based. Several camps are application based, requiring an essay to be written and teacher recommendations to be obtained. Two of the Precollegiate Programs summer camps offered at this level are one or two week long overnight camps, where students get to truly experience life as a college student. Camps like Mini College and Horizons Unlimited are day camps.

  • Printed Materials: Books

    A Series of Unfortunate Events
    For ages 9-12, this series of books is about three orphans, the Baudelaire children, and can be very dark. Despite the misadventures that befall these interesting, intelligent, resourceful orphans, you can trust that the engaging narrator will make their story suspenseful, alarming and entertaining.
    Advanced Math for Young Students: A First Course in Algebra
    Advanced Math for Young Students by Philip Keller provides an introduction to algebra, written for middle school and high school students. Emphasizing functions, graphs and equations, it demonstrates how the language of algebra is used, drawing examples from physics, chemistry and economics.
    This is not a traditional "Algebra 1" book. It is designed to be used before (or during) a student's first algebra class, though it also introduces some concepts from Algebra 2 and Pre-calculus.
    All Math Words Dictionary
    This book is a dictionary designed for students of pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, and intermediate algebra in middle school and high school. It is designed using the four 'C's: Concise, Complete, Correct and Comprehensible.
    Brain Surgery for Beginners and Other Major Operations for Minors: A Scalpel-Free Guide to Your Insides
    For ages 9-12, this book looks at all aspects of the human body from the vantage point of this amazing control center known as the brain. It is full of humor and wacky cartoons making it fun for young students of neurology.
    Challenging Units for Gifted Learners: Teaching the Way Gifted Students Think - Language Arts
    This book is part of the "Challenging Units for Gifted Students" series designed to help teachers provide the stimulating curricula that will nurture this potential in school. This book includes units that ask students to develop strong personalities for their main characters while writing mysteries, to study Freud's psychoanalytic theory and then analyze a classic novel using what they've learned, to focus on writing from a specific point of view, and to increase their appreciation for poetry by studying famous poets.
    Challenging Units for Gifted Learners: Teaching the Way Gifted Students Think - Math
    This book is part of the "Challenging Units for Gifted Students" series designed to help teachers provide the stimulating curricula that will nurture this potential in school. The units presented in this series are based on research into how gifted students actually think differently from their peers. This math book includes units that ask students to develop a financial portfolio; use math, science, engineering, technology, and art to design and build a miniature golf course; develop games based on probability; and run a real-life small business.
    Changing Tomorrow 2: Leadership Curriculum for High-Ability Middle School Students
    This book, for students in grades 6-8, offers instructional activities for high-ability middle school students based on the Common Core State Standards that emphasize critical and creative thinking skills and gives gifted students an opportunity to apply these skills in an integrative and substantive way.
    Could You Live Underwater?: A Design Thinking and STEM Curriculum Unit for Curious Learners (Grades 4-5)
    In this engaging design thinking adventure, students utilize STEM skills and creative thinking to research, design, and build prototypes of the underwater house of the future! After researching the effects of climate change on people throughout the world, learners narrow their focus to tackle an aspect of designing underwater that grabs their imaginations. They utilize design thinking to ideate, prototype, and test, conducting experiments along the way and applying their findings about the properties of water to their work. The unit includes six modules with flexible time constraints, meaning teachers can implement the unit in as little as six class periods or as many as 6 weeks. At every stage, learners draw on creativity and collaboration as they build STEM skills.
    Creating Strong Kids Through Writing: 30-Minute Lessons That Build Empathy, Self-Awareness, and Social-Emotional Understanding in Grades 4-8
    Teachers are always looking for activities that not only enhance the mechanics of writing—grammar, spelling, and syntax—but also allow students to express themselves in creative and personal ways. This book is the perfect resource for teachers seeking quick, ready-to-use writing lessons that encourage social and emotional growth, personal development, introspection, and innovative thinking in students. Each of the 20 lessons has been classroom-tested with students of all ability levels in grades 4–8, and each lesson contains one or more samples of student work to help guide and inspire student writers. This book is a resource teachers will turn to again and again when they seek writing lessons that, although short in duration, are lasting in their personal impact on student growth.
    Danny Champion of the World
    For ages 9-12, this book is about Danny who feels lucky. He adores his life with his father, living in a gypsy caravan, listening to his stories, tending their gas station, puttering around the workshop, and occasionally taking off to fly home-built gas balloons and kites. His father has raised him on his own, since Danny's mother died when he was 4 months old. Life is peaceful and wonderful until he turns 9 and discovers his father's one vice. Soon Danny finds himself the mastermind behind the most incredible plot ever attempted against nasty Victor Hazell, a wealthy landowner with a bad attitude. Can they pull it off? If so, Danny will truly be the champion of the world.
    Differentiation in Middle and High School: Strategies to Engage All Learners
    In this one-stop resource for middle and high school teachers, Kristina J. Doubet and Jessica A. Hockett explore how to use differentiated instruction to help students be more successful learners—regardless of background, native language, learning style, motivation, or school savvy.
    Educating Gifted Students in Middle School: A Practical Guide
    Susan Rakow, Ph.D., focuses on helping teachers, administrators, and parents to understand gifted middle school students, implement effective program models, define the role of the gifted teacher, and more. This book provides specific guidelines for program and curricular planning.
    Engineer This!: 10 Amazing Projects for Young Mechanical Engineers
    For ages 9 through 12, this book is for aspiring engineers and discusses using recycled and easy-to-find materials to build motorcars, catapults, gliders, and other completely functional machines. Engineer This! explores amazing scientific concepts, such as potential, kinetic, and electrical energy; principles of flight; weights and balances; pulleys and levers; laws of motion; and more. Each project includes step-by-step instructions, full-color photos, exciting facts, safety tips, and extended engineering and science activities for further discovery.
    Exploring Energy & Alternative Energy Technologies and Issues: Resource Guide for the Gifted Middle and High School Classroom
    This book is a comprehensive resource on energy conservation and consumption. It is specifically written for use in the gifted classroom.
    G Is for Googol: A Math Alphabet Book
    Fro grade 6 and up, this book ranges from exponents to light years to numbers found in nature. This smorgasbord of math concepts and trivia makes a perfect classroom companion, or gift, for the budding young mathematician. Math students will be drawn in by the author’s trademark wit.
    Get Organized Without Losing It (Revised & Updated Edition)
    In the quest for school success—not to mention a happy home life—kids have a lot to juggle: schoolwork, friends, activities, chores, bedrooms, electronics, lockers, and desks. This book provides friendly, entertaining help for kids who want to manage their tasks, time, and stuff—without going overboard or being totally obsessed. Empower kids to: conquer clutter; prioritize tasks; master their devices (not the other way around); supercharge study skills, handle homework, and prepare for tests; and, stop procrastinating and start enjoying less stress and more success. Tips, examples, lists, and steps make it doable; jokes and cartoons make it enjoyable.
    Getting into Area: Hands-On Problem-Solving Activities for Grades 3-6
    Real-life topics from architecture to sewing assure these 21 "discovery activities" make sense. Students use Pattern Blocks, tessellation patterns, geoboards, and dice to explore area and perimeter and make connections to multiplication, fractions, and decimals.
    Girl Who Didn't Mind / Caileag A Bha Coma
    This book takes the reader on a journey through the ups and downs of one highly teachable soul at odds with the world around her. See how a connected mom rescues her unconventional child from the depths of despair. From Celtic knots to golden locks, this English/Gaelic drama is an uplifting whimsical story for free spirits of all ages!
    Hands-On STEAM Explorations for Young Learners: Problem-Based Investigations for Preschool to Second Grade
    This book uses popular children’s nursery rhymes to explore STEAM concepts through minds-on, hands-on investigations. Children ages 4–8 and their teachers will love this twist on familiar old nursery rhymes. Children will enjoy problem solving and tinkering as they discover and explore. Baa, Baa, Black Sheep insists that she hides more colors in the drawn lines of her black wool. Test to find out if it is possible for black to be more than one color. How might you make Old King Cole’s fiddle using cardboard boxes and rubber bands? Teachers will appreciate the easy-to-follow layout, connections to advanced learning, and easy-to-access materials in each investigation. Innovation, wonder, and fun are at the heart of each of these explorations.
    Homeschooling: The Teen Years
    This book is a complete guide to successfully homeschooling 13 to 18 year olds, the years when many homeschooling parents start to question or abandon their efforts. It's a precarious time, with challenging academics, pressing social issues and the prospect of college looming. This guide calms parents' teen-time jitters and offers hope to those turning to homeschooling when their child is about to enter high school. With "how we did it" testimonials from other parents throughout the book, the author offers sage advice.
    Hoot
    In his first novel for a younger audience (ages 9-12), author Carl Hiaasen plunges readers right into the middle of an ecological mystery, made up of endangered miniature owls, the Mother Paula's All-American Pancake House scheduled to be built over their burrows, and the owls' unlikely allies - three middle school kids determined to beat the screwed-up adult system.
    How Come? Every Kid's Science Questions Explained
    For grades 5-9, this book answers all kinds of weird science questions, such as "Why is the sky blue?" and "What is a black hole?" and "Why do people have different types of blood?" Each question is answered in about two pages (the book has 320 pages total), and most have cartoons to go with them.
    How to Take the ACHE Out of Mistakes
    Making a mistake can leave anyone feeling sick in the stomach or thinking that the world is going to end. Learning how to cope with mistakes—and how to stop that “ache”—can be one of the hardest parts of growing up. How to Take the ACHE Out of Mistakes takes a closer look at the mistakes kids make—honest and intentional—and offers practical advice on how to bounce back. With a healthy dose of humor, readers learn that embarrassing moments aren’t forever and a sincere apology can go a long way.
    I’m Happy-Sad Today: Making Sense of Mixed-Together Feelings
    This friendly picture book helps young children make sense of mixed-up emotions. With gentle messaging and charming illustrations, a little girl talks about her many layered feelings, ultimately concluding, “When I have more than one feeling inside me, I don’t have to choose just one. I know that all my feelings are okay at the same time.” A special section for adults presents ideas for helping children explore their emotions, build a vocabulary of feeling words, know what to do if they feel overwhelmed, and more.
    If You Lived Series
    Books in the series include: If You Grew Up with Abraham Lincoln; If You Grew Up with George Washington; If You Lived at the Time of Martin Luther King; If You Lived at the Time of the Civil War; If You Lived in Colonial Times; If You Sailed on the Mayflower in 1620; and If You Traveled on the Underground Railroad. The books are written in question and answer format, and provide information about what life was like at that time in history.
    I'm Not Just Gifted: Social-Emotional Curriculum for Guiding Gifted Children
    What traits and characteristics define successful people? Why do gifted children, in particular, need a strong affective curricula in order to maximize their potential? These questions and more are explored in this guide to helping gifted children in grades 4–7 as they navigate the complicated social and emotional aspects of their lives. Including lesson plans, worksheets, and connections to Common Core State Standards, this is a practical guide necessary for anyone serving and working with gifted children.
    Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Programs and Workbooks
    This series targets reading comprehension skills in high-ability learners by moving students through an inquiry process from basic understanding to critical analyses of texts using a field-tested method developed by the Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary. Students in grades K–9 will be able to comprehend and analyze any reading passage after completing the activities in these books. Using skill ladders connected to individual readings in poetry, short stories, and nonfiction, students move from lower order, concrete thinking skills to higher order, critical thinking skills. All of the books, geared to increasing grade levels, include high-interest readings, ladders to increase reading skill development, and easy-to-implement instructions.
    Jane and Johnny Love Math: Recognizing and Encouraging Mathematical Talent in Elementary Students
    For parents and educators, this book delineates methods of addressing the needs of mathematically talented students younger than 12. The approaches described are based on the authors’ experiences with hundreds of talented students. They discuss educational options allowing students to move systematically through the elementary math curriculum while matching the curriculum to the students' abilities and achievements. The book includes problem sets from the Mathematical Olympiads for Elementary Schools as well as practical ideas for classroom teachers, mathematics mentors, and parents.
    Janice VanCleave's Science for Every Kid (Book Series)
    for grades 3-6, this book series covers many scientific subjects: biology, ecology, astronomy, chemistry, physics, etc. Complete with illustrations, activities and experiments to help children understand science.
    Knowing How: Researching and Writing Nonfiction, 3-8
    The book demystifies the research process and provides tools students need to shape their research into substantive, well-written products that communicate with readers. Combining research with compelling writing is challenging for upper elementary and middle school students, but when done well, reports embody the passion that every student brings to the subject she or he loves.
    KONOS Character Curriculum
    The KONOS Character Curriculum is a multi-level, K-8 curriculum guide which allows a homeschooling parent to teach several ages of children from the same materials. The units are designed around desirable character traits, and incorporate many elements appropriate for gifted pupils, including an interdisciplinary approach to curriculum, challenging hands-on projects, enrichment suggestions, and the possibility of placing a child at accelerated or varied levels within the curriculum. A nondenominational Christian curriculum, this program was originally designed for Mrs. Hulcy's own highly gifted children.
    Lessons From the Middle: High-End Learning for Middle School Students
    In addition to the 12 model lessons provided, this book from Sandra Kaplan and Michael Cannon, includes a step-by-step guide to developing lessons that emphasize depth and complexity. All of the materials focus on ways to align the middle school curriculum wtih established national standards and offer strategies to evaluate learner achievement.
    Math Connects Program (Book Series)
    This series, for students from pre-K through grade 6, presents math skills based on grade level standards. Each concept is clearly explained visually and auditorily at the top of the page and then the child can practice as needed. There are tests at the end of each chapter to measure progress.
    Math for Kids & Other People Too!
    This book by author T. Pappas is for ages 9-12 and helps kids discover what mathematics is all about--not dreary, repetitive computations, but concepts brought to life by stories, puzzles, and challenges. With a section dedicated to puzzles, games, and tricks, and more than 100 illustrations packed into a large-sized format, this book is just the ticket for demystifying math and getting youngsters interested.
    Middle Grades Mathematics Project
    Middle Grades Mathematics Project is a series of teacher resource books with unique teaching guides and blackline masters designed to help teachers develop students' problem-solving skills via activity-oriented mathematics. The series includes five books: Mouse and Elephant; Factors and Multiples; Similarity and Equivalent Fractions; Spatial Visualization; and Probability.
    Middle Grades Mathematics Project Grades 5-8
    Dr. Ann Lupkowski Shoplik highly recommends books from this series. They are wonderful for teachers as well as homeschoolers. This series includes a number of activities for the students, and it's great for the teachers--very well-organized, lists of materials, "teacher talk," "student talk," etc.
    Millicent Min, Girl Genius
    Author Lisa Yee tells the story of 11-year-old certified genius, Millicent Min. She breezes through high school and college classes, but when it comes to making friends her own age, she's at a loss. Click here to read reviews of this book by several Davidson Young Scholars.
    Mythology Smart Junior: A Journey to the Land of Legend
    For ages 9-12, this book by Gary Arms is about four friends who travel to the land of mythology for a variety of adventures and learning experiences.
    Nancy Drew Mysteries (Book Series)
    The Nancy Drew Starter Set for young adults is the perfect gift for aspiring detectives, or longtime fans of the series! The first six books are packaged together in a collectible box set with an updated design. Titles included are #1 The Secret of the Old Clock, #2 The Hidden Staircase, #3 The Bungalow Mystery, #4 The Mystery at Lilac Inn, #5 The Secret of Shadow Ranch, and #6 The Secret of Red Gate Farm.
    Order in the Court - A Mock Trial Simulation
    Order in the Court: A Mock Trial Simulation gives students the opportunity to conduct a trial based on a classic fairytale in order to develop their courtroom skills. After developing the necessary vocabulary, students participate in the trial of Ms. Petunia Pig v. Mr. B. B. Wolf. Students not only learn the concepts, but they also learn valuable teamwork and time management skills. Designed for students grades 6-8, the unit culminates in a full mock-trial enactment.
    Percy Jackson (Book Series)
    For ages 9-12, this book's main character seems like just another New York kid with ADHD, who has good intentions, a nasty stepfather, and a long line of schools that have rejected him. Then, the revelation of his status as half-blood offspring of one of the Greek gods is unveiled and the adventure begins. The Lightning Thief is the first book in this series by Rick Riordan.
    Philosophy for Teens: Questioning Life's Big Ideas
    Authors Sharon Kaye and Paul Thomson, examine some of life's biggest topics, such as lying, cheating, love, beauty, the role government, hate and prejudice in this teenager-friendly book. Both sides of the debates are covered on every issue, with information from some of the world's most noted philosophers. For grades 7-12.
    Quotation Quizzlers: Puzzling Your Way Through Famous Quotations
    For ages 9-12, this book will make you feel like you've stepped into the mind of someone famous (and have fun) while using deductive reasoning to solve unique and challenging puzzles. Fifty Quizzlers pit right brain against left brain in a struggle to decipher famous (and not so famous) quotations. In addition to the 50 Quizzlers, this book contains biographies of all the figures quoted. Explore the motivating thoughts of some of the world’s most inspired minds.
    Ready-to-Use Differentiation Strategies - Grades 6-8
    Ready-to-Use Differentiation Strategies introduces various activities and strategies that can be implemented in any content area in grades 6–8. Each differentiation strategy encourages higher level thinking and intellectual risk taking while accommodating different learning styles. This book also provides templates that can be used to develop new lessons using each strategy. Designed for students grades 6-8, Ready-to-Use Differentiation Strategies provides an easy-to-use way to begin differentiating for all students in the classroom.
    Real Life Math Mysteries: A Kid's Answer to the Question, "What will we ever use this for?"
    For grades 4-10, this book helps students discover the excitement and challenge of using their problem-solving skills to solve an array of real world math problems. Drawn from interviews with working people in professions ranging from zookeeper to horse stable owner, the problems in this book stimulate student interest.
    Reflect and Write: 300 Poems and Photographs to Inspire Writing
    This book combines dynamic images with original poems written by students at the junior and senior high school levels, teachers, and other writers nationwide. Additionally, each page contains keywords, as well as popular quotations by well-known authors, designed to inspire critical thinking. This book encourages students to read, relate to, and respond to modern verse and inspiring photographs both verbally and in writing.
    So You Want to Be a Wizard: The First Book in the Young Wizards Series
    For ages 9-12, this series by Diane Duane is about two children who discover a book called "So You Want to Be a Wizard." The story is about these two lonely kids who are inadvertently caught up in the never-ending battle between good and evil.
    Solar Power, Fuel Cells, Wind Power and Other Important Environmental Studies for Upper Elementary and Middle School Gifted Students and Their Teachers: Technology, Problem-Solving and Invention Guide
    The Fourteen Enriched Chapters in Harry's book are designed to stimulate the Imaginations and Problem-Solving Skills of gifted students. The chapters are: Solving Problems: A Quick Reflection; About Technology Education; Technology - History - Economy - Society Connection; Building Critical Career Skills While Still in School; Solar Power: Here Comes the Sun; Fuel Cells: An Exciting, New, Clean Energy Option; Wind Power: The Fastest Growing Alternate Energy Technology; Archaeological Investigations of Garbage; Organizational Skills: Teaching Timelines; Creative Communications: A Portal to Invention; The Internet: You Ain't Seen "Nuttin" Yet; Creative Makeovers in Your School; More Communications "Stuff"; Edison's Hands: Study of a Genius of Technology and Invention.
    Some of My Best Friends Are Books: Guiding Gifted Readers from Pre-School to High School
    This book by Judith Wynn Halsted, M.S. offers a list of recommended books for gifted students from preschool through high school. The author describes how to use books as bibliotherapy to provide support, guidance, and insight. This is an in valuable resource for parents looking for books to recommend to gifted readers not only to enjoy, but also to gain perspective on themselves and others. Click here to read a review of this book.
    Spatial Reasoning Puzzles That Make Kids Think!
    Designed to engage even the most reluctant math learner, in this fun and challenging book, students must conquer four types of logical and spatial reasoning puzzles (Slitherlink, Hashiwokakero, Masyu, and Yajilin). The rules for each type of puzzle are very different, but easy to understand. The challenge is for students to apply their critical thinking skills to new situations and develop new strategies for solving each puzzle. Teacher support is provided for solving the puzzles and also for helping students to create puzzles of their own.
    Stormy Night
    Winner of the prestigious BolognaRagazzi Award, this intriguing book for ages 9-12 While this unusually long picture book (240 pages) provides no answers to the many queries posed by a young girl who can't sleep because "Too many questions are buzzing through my head." There is no story; it's simply a catalog of questions and fears ranging from typical concerns about appearance to fears to universal enigmas. This inventory of mind-bending mysteries may provide an outlet for adolescents unable to formulate their concerns and could serve as a jumping-off point for discussions at home or in the classroom.
    Take Control of ADHD: The Ultimate Guide for Teens With ADHD
    This book presents the latest research and information on ADHD in a conversational style that teens can understand easily, allowing them to develop a better understanding of their disorder. By including suggestions from teens with ADHD, the authors offer tons of advice, information, and ideas for students, from students just like them. This handy guidebook is sure to help teens with ADHD learn to refocus their attention and find success in school and beyond!
    Tale of the Toa - Bionicle Chronicles (Book Series)
    Written by C. Hapka for ages 9-12, this book, which is the first in the series, is set in the time before time when a great being watched over the ancient land of Mata Nui, protecting it from harm. A powerful entity, Makuta, has arisen, and a dark and evil shadow has fallen over the land. Just when all seems lost, six heroes emerge from the darkness with a single destiny: Destroy Makuta and restore peace to the land.
    The All-New Book of Lists for Kids
    For ages 9-12, this book is an information sandwich with everything on it with tons of fun facts about your favorite movies, music, books, and sports and games, along with kid survival tips and techniques. Find out how to defend yourself against vampires, what to do if you're afraid of the dark, and how to look great in your school picture. You'll also find hundreds of addresses for kid-friendly Web sites (as well as information on how to visit them safely).
    The Midwife's Apprentice
    Written by Karen Cushman for ages 9-12, this book is set in the Middle Ages and in it, a girl is adopted by a midwife as an apprentice. This book tells the story of her rise from a homeless and nameless girl to her new place in society.
    The Neverending Story
    By Michael Ende, The Neverending Story is about small and insignificant Bastian Balthazar Bux is nobody's idea of a hero, least of all his own. Then, through the pages of an ancient, mysterious book, he discovers the enchanted world of Fantastica, and only Bastian himself can save the fairy people who live there. For ages 9-12.
    The New Way Things Work
    For ages 9-12, this book boasts a richly illustrated 80-page section that wrenches us all (including the wooly mammoth who ambles along with the reader) into the digital age of modems, digital cameras, compact discs, bits and bytes. Readers can glory in gears in "The Mechanics of Movement," investigate flying in "Harnessing the Elements," demystify the sound of music in "Working with Waves," marvel at magnetism in "Electricity & Automation," and examine e-mail in "The Digital Domain."
    The Princess Diaries Series - Volume 1
    By Meg Cabot, The Princess Diaries, Volume 1 is about a girl named Mia who discoveres that she is the heir to a small country called Genovia. The thing is, she dosen't want to be queen! This book is written in the form of a diary which Mia keeps. The book can be confusing, but it is very interesting. It is also a movie, but the book's better.
    The Roller-Coaster Years: Raising Your Child Through the Maddening Yet Magical Middle-School Years
    In this book, Charlene Giannetti covers many different aspects of pre-adolescence and adolescence by presenting different scenarios which are typical of this age group. Some of the statistics provided are alarming but can be helpful for parents in understanding the scope of adolescent problems. Strategies are provided on how to steer your middle school child in the right direction.
    The Whole Story Series
    This collection of classics is unabridged, lavishly illustrated in color and in black and white, featuring drawings, maps, photographs, diagrams and paintings, many are dated from the era in which the stories were written. There are hundreds of extended captions offering lively explanations of history, geography, culture, customs, animal world, architecture, literature and science. Titles include: Around the World in Eighty Days; The Call of the Wild; Heidi; The Jungle Book; Tom Sawyer; Treasure Island; and, Little Women.
    Twisted True Tales From Science - Prufrock series
    Mummies made of honey, needles stuck in eyeballs, and murderous fog. It sounds like a science-fiction movie, but these are all true stories found in the Twisted True Tales From Science series for kids ages 9–12. Learning about science has never been so gross, or so much fun. Books in this series include "Disaster Discoveries", "Explosive Experiments", "Insane Inventors" and "Medical Mayhem".
    VerbalAdvantage (Student Edition)
    The Verbal Advantage Student Edition was specifically developed to help junior high and high school students and is also great for adults who are well on their way to learning English as a second language. There are 16 lessons, two per audio unit, which introduce new vocabulary words using fun, dramatized stories, typical English paragraphs, and unique "top twenty" word categories.
    What to Do When Good Enough Isn't Good Enough: The Real Deal on Perfectionism
    Perfectionism is an issue many gifted children and adults face. In this book, author Thomas S. Greenspon explains the characteristics of and ideas on how to overcome perfectionism. This guide is tailored especially for preteens and teenagers.
    What's Your Opinion?: An Interactive Discovery-Based Language Arts Unit for High-Ability Learners
    This book, What's Your Opinion?: An Interactive Discovery-Based Language Arts Unit for High-Ability Learners, uses debate to extend students' abilities to analyze and interpret informational texts, strengthen students' reading strategies and fluency, and help students develop persuasive speaking and writing skills.
    When a Friend Dies
    The death of a friend is a wrenching event for anyone at any age and can spark feelings that range from sadness to guilt to anxiety. Teenagers especially need help coping with grief and loss. This sensitive book answers questions grieving teens often have and addresses the complicated emotions that can accompany the death of an acquaintance, as opposed to a close friend. The advice is gentle, non-preachy, and compassionate; recommended for parents and teachers of teens who have experienced a painful loss.

  • Printed Materials: Periodicals/Reports & Studies

    Big Life Journal
    Big Life Journal helps children develop strong Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and growth mindset skills through inspiring stories, colorful illustrations, and engaging guided activities. In this illustrated journal, children discover how to believe in themselves and face challenges with confidence. They learn that mistakes are opportunities to grow and they can achieve anything when they're persistent! There’s one edition for children ages 7-10 and one for teens ages 11+.

  • Schools & Programs: College Affiliated

    Boston University Academy (Boston, MA)
    The mission of Boston University Academy is to educate talented students who are passionate about learning and who share the joy of inquiry. Engaging with dedicated teachers in a small and caring community, students first immerse themselves in a classically based curriculum and then continue their intellectual interests at Boston University, a major research university.
    Brigham Young University (BYU) - Independent Study (Provo, UT)
    This is a distance education program offering more than 500 university, high school, junior high school and personal enrichment courses to people throughout the world. BYU is accredited as an institution by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Courses can be taken through a paper/pencil version or an online version. The student studies the materials, submits lessons, takes a final exam with a proctor or at a testing center, and receives a course grade that can be transferred to the school of their choice.
    Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Discovery Series - Johns Hopkins (Baltimore, MD)
    CTY Talent Search participants in grades five through seven are invited to experience the wealth of resources and activities available at prestigious museums, aquariums, and nature and science centers. As determined by the unique focus of each host institution, scientists, naturalists, historians, artists, and other educators guide participants through an exploration of on-site exhibits and activities, using their professional expertise to address the learning needs and lively curiosity of highly able students. Overall, the series provides a stimulating environment where families share a common love of learning while discovering new interests. The Discovery Series includes one-day, overnight, and extended programs.
    Davidson Academy (Reno, NV & Online Campuses)
    The Davidson Academy offers two educational options for profoundly gifted students - an online school for students living anywhere in the U.S.  with classes starting at the eighth-grade level, AND a middle and high school on the University of Nevada, Reno campus for local residents. The Academy is designed to be different with classes grouped by ability, not age. The Academy offers personalized learning plans for students allowing them to learn at their own pace and depth.
    Gifted & Talented Education (GATE), The Honors College at Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)
    The various Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs offered through Michigan State University (MSU) are dedicated to promoting differentiated educational programs for students in grades 7-12. Mathematics Science and Technology (MST) is a two-week residential program for academically talented students. CHAMP is a regional program for students highly gifted in mathematics. ISHALL is an accelerated, intensive two-year course in literature and language designed to meet the curricular goals and merit standards of high school English, grades 7-10, in two years. Plus, there is also a dual enrollment program, a Michigan-Shiga Exchange program, a CSI Forensic Science program and several others listed on the website.
    Hunter College High School (New York, NY)
    Hunter College High School is a public coeducational day school for intellectually gifted students in grades 7-12, located in New York City. Students here experience an enriched and accelerated liberal arts program within a rigorous and collaborative learning community. The school is supported and maintained by the City University of New York. Students are admitted on a basis of an entrance exam given in January of their sixth grade year. Students must be recommended by their elementary school principal to sit for the exam. The school promotes respect for scholarship, leadership, and service (all students must complete a minimum number of hours of community service before graduation).
    Kids on Campus – Schoolcraft College (Livonia, MI)
    Schoolcraft College offers a Kids on Campus program that offers a large variety of exciting educational programs for children grades 1st - 12th. Classes are offered during the fall, winter, and summer semesters at times convenient for children and parents.
    Stanford Math Circle (Stanford, CA)
    The Stanford Math Circle offers quarter-long sessions for local, elementary-, middle-, and high-school students who are interested in math. Math circles are weekly gatherings of students working on problems involving complex and advanced mathematical topics, guided by mathematicians and educators. The weekly meetings take place on Thursdays on Stanford University’s campus.
    Stanford Science Circle (Stanford, CA)
    The Stanford Science Circle offers quarter-long classes for high and middle school students who are interested in exploring the vast and exciting world of scientific research. Weekly sessions are held at Stanford throughout the academic quarter. The Science Circle promots science interest and career awareness through engaging lectures and hands-on activities. Students learn directly from faculty, researchers, and post-doctooral scholars in the Stanford science community.
    State University New York at Buffalo (SUNY) - Gifted Math Program (Buffalo, NY)
    The Gifted Math Program is an enrichment program for students in grades seven through 12 at the State University of New York at Buffalo. Students commute to the University twice weekly to study an enriched and accelerated program of mathematics in grades seven through 10, and university level courses in discrete mathematics and calculus in grades 11 and 12. They can accumulate a total of 22 semester hours of university credit for successful participation.
    The Juilliard School - Pre-College Division (New York, NY)
    Juilliard's Pre-College Division offers a thorough and comprehensive program of music instruction for talented young people who show the potential to pursue a professional career in music. It meets on Saturdays for 30 weeks between September and May. Students accepted into the division have demonstrated their abilities at an early age, along with outstanding capabilities to work with focus and purpose. At the School, these young musicians enjoy an atmosphere where their artistic gifts and technical skills can grow and flourish.
    Walters State Talented and Gifted Program (Morristown, TN)
    Consisting of approximately 100 programs designed to stimulate and challenge East Tennessee’s gifted students, from the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grades, these classes are instructed by area experts and encourage student participation in hands-on activities.

  • Schools & Programs: Independent

    Academy Hill (Springfield, MA)
    Academy Hill School is a coeducational private day school for grades K-8, located in Springfield, Mass. According their web site, the student to teacher ratio is small, curriculum is compacted and learning is accelerated and enriched. Children are instructed individually and in small groups.
    ACE Academy (Austin, TX)
    ACE Academy is a private, independent school for gifted students in Austin, Texas. ACE combines strong, integrated academic curriculum with a global outlook. Emotional intelligence, fine arts, foreign languages, robotics, multiple electives, and independent study provide gifted students with the ability groupings, depth, and pace they require to thrive. ACE Academy offers grades Pre-K (3 years) to eighth grade.
    Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain (Las Vegas, NV)
    The Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain in Las Vegas, Nevada is a learning community for boys and girls in preschool through grade eight that challenges students to achieve excellence in mind, body and character.
    AltSchool (San Francisco, CA)
    AltSchool is currently building a network of micro-schools that are located in the San Francisco neighborhoods where most AltSchool applicants live. AltSchool micro-schools are small learning communities that range from 20 to 80 students. Because of their small size, micro-schools are flexible in adapting to the needs of teachers, parents and students. Micro-schools foster a strong sense of community while benefiting from the resources and innovations of the larger AltSchool network. Personalized Learning Plans are developed for each student.
    American High School
    American High School's virtual school program offers quality, Internet-delivered online high school and middle school courses for students throughout the United States and internationally. Since 2004, American High School has enrolled over 8,000 students.
    Anderson Private School for the Gifted, Talented and Creative (Fort Worth, TX)
    Anderson is a private coeducational day school for elementary and middle school students, located in Fort Worth, Texas. This school offers an extremely individualized curriculum.
    Barthelmes Conservatory Music School (Tulsa, OK)
    Barthelmes Conservatory is a non-profit organization offering a year-long music program. This after school schedule provides music education and is tailored to the needs of musically gifted and talented elementary and middle school youth displaying the potential to pursue music as a professional career.
    Berkeley Hall School (Los Angeles, CA)
    Berkeley Hall School is committed to serving a diverse student body and seeks applicants with records of strong academic ability and achievement, solid citizenship, and high moral values. Parents must embrace the academic and ethical standards of the Berkeley Hall community and be willing to participate as partners with the school in their child's education.
    Booker Middle School (Sarasota, FL)
    BMS is a Gifted and Talented/Visual Performing Arts magnet school in Sarasota County. It offers a full-time gifted classroom for 6th-8th graders who meet full-time gifted criteria. In addition, the school also offers a variety of Visual Performing arts instruction and houses five multi-platform computer labs for instruction and assessment.
    Bridges Academy (Los Angeles, CA)
    The mission of the Bridges Academy is to educate twice-exceptional (2e) students. The school offers two programs: the Phoenix Program for students ages 9-11, and the 7th-12th grade post-secondary preparatory program.
    Calvert School - Grades K through 8 (Baltimore, MD)
    Calvert is an actual private school in Baltimore, MD. offering a homeschool curriculum. Their complete course packages are balanced and coordinated allowing home schooling parents to spend the majority of their time educating their children, rather than researching subjects or writing lesson plans. Through creative presentations and clever games, learning can be fun, yet challenging. The classes utilizes fundamentals, reinforced through repeated drills and ample free time to encourage the independent development of the student. The goal is to help guide the students' education while allowing them to discover their own paths.
    Covington Latin School (CLS) (Covington, KY)
    Covington Latin School offers gifted students an accelerated college-preparatory high school education. It offers a program completely designed to accelerate the development of younger students. Students can enter the Latin School after completing grades five through seven, thus beginning their high school education years earlier than a traditional high school program. Students have the option of entering a Prep 7 or Prep 8 class. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges.
    Cyprus Classical Academy (Burnsville, MN)
    Cyprus Classical Academy in Burnsville, Minnesota is a school that offers a customized and individualized classes and pacing for each student while maintaining a school structure and planned curriculum. Students leave Cyprus with an excellent education in math, language, composition, public speaking, the arts, history, science and technology. Cyprus also offers extensive options for foreign language, music and art, which further allows students to develop their talents and broaden and refine their knowledge into multiple areas of study and expertise.
    De La Salle Academy (New York, NY)
    De La Salle Academy is a private coeducational day school for grades 6-8, located in New York City. This school, located in Manhattan, serves academically talented, economically disadvantaged students. The school stresses the education of the total person by providing the students with an accelerated and enriched curriculum.
    Dunham Academy (San Rafael, CA)
    Dunham Academy is an academically selective, private coeducational day school for grades K-8, located in San Rafael, California. Dunham Academy was founded and incorporated in 1998 in San Rafael, California by Jennifer and Daniel Dunham as a nonprofit educational institution to meet the needs of the area's large population of academically talented students where families seek for their children an academically rigorous, independent education in a challenging and enriching environment.
    Edlin School (Reston, VA)
    Edlin School is a private coeducational day school for grades K-8, located in Reston, Virginia. This school was established by two teachers with gifted children who found their needs were not being met in existing institutions. It is a nurturing place, relatively flexible, and quite small. There is a dress code; Willingness to make some accomodations for HG/EG/PG children.
    Emerson School (Ann Arbor, MI)
    Emerson School is a private coed day school for academically gifted students in grades K-8, in Ann Arbor, Mich. It has achieved success in developing the talents and strengths of the individual thanks to outstanding teachers and an innovative curriculum . The mission of Emerson School is to provide a whole child, multiple method approach to instruction for gifted and for academically talented students.
    En Famille
    This non-profit organization was established in France in 1978. It arranges long-term language immersion exchanges for students ages 9-16. American students are paired with a student of their own age in France, Spain, or Germany. After the two are matched, they spend a year together: six months in their own country, with their own family, and six months with their exchange partner’s family. Teens 14 and up can participate for a period of as short as three months.
    Evergreen School (Shoreline, WA)
    Evergreen School is a private coedcuational day school for grades PK-8, located in Shoreline, Washington.
    The Evergreen School challenges and nurtures highly intelligent, creative children, fostering responsibility, love of learning and self-esteem. Evergreen offers an enriched curriculum using innovative educational techniques including independent and small, flexible group learning.
    FlexSchool (Fanwood, NJ, New Haven, CT, & Rockville, MD)

    FlexSchool is a day school for gifted and twice exceptional (2e) middle and high school students. With three campuses (located in NJ, CT, and MD), FlexSchool provides a high-quality, flexible, individualized educational experience for divergent thinkers in middle school, high school and post-graduate year. The school provides one-on-one courses for those students who want to be a part of a school, yet need individual attention in some or all of their courses. The faculty focuses on critical thinking in all areas of learning; a “toolbox” concept emphasizing how to learn rather than an “encyclopedia” concept emphasizing specific material (though all core bases are covered in depth). Block scheduling promotes in-depth discussions and extensive experiments. For students in one-on-one courses, the depth and flexibility of the teaching staff enables students to customize their schedules.

    Hampshire Country School (Rindge, NH)
    Hampshire Country School is a private boarding school for boys ages 9-15, located in Rindge, New Hampshire. The school is for boys of high ability who need a personal environment with an unusual amount of adult attention and structure. Hampshire Country School can provide appropriate structure and support for certain students with nonverbal learning disabilities, Tourette Syndrome, ADHD, Asperger Syndrome, and other disorders; but it is not a treatment program. It is designed instead to involve and educate the bright, active, and interested side of each child rather than to dwell on the student's limitations and difficulties.
    Hillside School (Boulder, CO)
    Hillside School provides specialized instruction in reading, writing, and math for students in grades 1-9 in a supportive environment. They set out to enable students who have learning differences, such as dyslexia, to reach their academic potential and become capable and confident learners.
    Institute for Mathematics and Computer Science (IMACS) - (Multiple Locations)
    IMACS is designed to give children a competitive edge by teaching them how to think critically using logic and reasoning. Headquartered in Plantation, Florida, IMACS offers after-school and weekend classes for gifted and talented 1st-12th grade students in math enrichment, computer programming and virtual robotics, electronics, university-level mathematics, and university-level computer science. Classes are held at various locations throughout South Florida and at affiliate locations in North Carolina, St. Louis, and Connecticut. Some IMACS locations also offer a fun-filled Hi-Tech Summer Camp. Secondary school students not able to attend a local teaching center may take foundational courses through Elements of Mathematics: Foundations (EMF) or university-level courses through eIMACS, both of which are online.
    Le Sallay International Academy (International)
    Le Sallay International Academy is an international English language school combining boarding/distance learning centered for gifted middle school students (ages 10-14.) A great fit for twice exceptional learners, the program is very individualized, with teachers providing a differentiated approach for all students. Le Sallay follows a Modular schedule: 2-3 weeks of organized classroom sessions in study camps followed by 6-8 weeks of classes at home, comprised of independent work and daily group online classes with teachers.
    Logan School (Denver, CO)
    The Logan School for Creative Learning is a private coed day school for children ages 5-15, located in Denver, CO. The Logan School provides a challenging environment that addresses the intellectual, emotional, and social needs children. Students have an individualized curriculum for his/her unique readiness level, learning style, and personal interests, and decisions are made each year about appropriate placement of students, depending upon their needs and progress.
    Long Island School for the Gifted (Huntington Station, NY)
    The Long Island School for the Gifted (LISG) is a private coeducational day school for gifted students in grades K-9, located in Huntington Station, New York. This is an academically rigorous school with a fairly traditional approach to education. The curriculum for each grade level is about 2 years ahead of other (non gifted) schools. Each graduating ninth grader enters high school having already earned several credits and is in a position to accelerate through the high school curriculum.
    Long Trail School (Dorset, VT)
    This school is designed to provide stimulation, individualized attention, and encouragement for students in grades 6-12. The goal is to make each student focused, hardworking and creative. Long Trail School also provides students the International Baccalaureate program.
    Loudoun School for the Gifted (Ashburn, VA)
    Located in Ashburn, Virginia, the Loudoun School for the Gifted offers courses and curriculum that seek to challenge students while at the same time stimulating creativity and making school an enjoyable place to be. Ideal Schools High School opened in 2008 as the first and only co-educational independent high school in Loudoun County founded. In 2012, the school added grades 6 through 8 and was renamed Loudoun School for the Gifted, to reflect the school's focus and academic program.
    Mackintosh Academy (Boulder, CO)
    Mackintosh Academy in Boulder, Colorado is the area’s premier independent, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for gifted and creative kindergarten through eighth grade students. Mack Boulder is committed to inspiring motivated learners through its core mission tenets: Keen Minds, Compassionate Hearts, and Global Action. Featuring small classes sizes, two homeroom teachers per class, vigorous academics, social emotional learning, innovative programming in the arts and design, and service learning.
    Mackintosh Academy (Littleton, CO)
    This school stands as the Rocky Mountain pioneer in gifted and talented education. The holistic, well-rounded educational program focuses on the mind and the heart and nurtures the social, emotional, physical, and creative needs of gifted children, as well as academic ones. Mackintosh Academy employs the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme and Middle Years Programme curricular framework, which helps ensure that each individual student is engaged, challenged, pushed to be an independent thinker.
    North Star (Hadley, MA)
    This organization provides a customized academic plan to map a personal educational approach. The academic plan will be based on the teen’s interests while also fulfilling the parent’s needs. North Star facilitates this process through discussion, brainstorming, and recommendations based on 16 years of supporting families through this process. If the teen is under age 16 the organization will help parents develop a homeschooling curriculum for submission to the local superintendent to certify the student as a homeschooler. This is the contract that makes leaving school legal for youths under age 16.
    Peabody School (Charlottesville, VA)
    The Peabody School's mission is to serve the needs of academically advanced children in one or more areas of all backgrounds by promoting cognitive, social and emotional development for each child at a rate commensurate with his or her ability, while providing a foundation for students to become life-long learners. Serving Pre-Kindergarten through eighth grade students, the Peabody School provides hands-on, differentiated learning experiences; wide-ranging and rigorous curriculum; and a nurturing, positive learning environment to meet individual needs. The Peabody School offers classes in world languages, visual arts, performing arts, physical education, and service learning in addition to the traditional core curriculum.
    Pegasus School (Huntington Beach, CA)
    Pegasus School is a private, coeducational day school for gifted students in grades PK-8, located in Huntington Beach, California. The Pegasus School promotes academic excellence in a supportive environment that develops active learners and creative problem solvers who are eager to apply their knowledge to real life experiences. We are committed to providing unique opportunities to achieve through a challenging curriculum that also encourages character development and traditional values.
    Proof School (San Francisco, CA)
    Proof School is for students with a genuine love for math, computer science, and making things -- and who want to learn with like-minded peers. The best-fit students are internally driven to pursue mathematical sciences, not externally pushed. They are students excited by the opportunity to spend 2.5 hours on math in school every day. They are students open to new ideas, persistent with projects and problems that are challenging and inspiring. They are students interested and ready in areas outside of mathematics, be it music, laboratory sciences, history, or literature.
    Quest Academy (Palatine, IL)
    Quest Academy is an Independent School educating and nurturing gifted students in grades PreK-8. The school offers a liberal arts curriculum that challenges and inspires gifted children along with character education and service learning. Small classes are designed to allow for teachers to meet the individual needs of students through differentiation and individualized learning plans. All classrooms use state of the art SmartBoard technology.
    Renaissance Village Academy (San Diego, CA)
    The mission of Renaissance Village Academy is to provide gifted, profoundly gifted, and highly motivated students with the experiences and knowledge they will need to be successful navigating the complexities of the world from an international perspective.
    Revo Academy (Thousand Oaks, CA)
    Revo Academy is a K-8, WASC accredited, private school for gifted learners in Thousand Oaks, California. It was founded by educators with an expertise in gifted education as well as a personal connection and passion for serving this student population.
    Rhoades School (Encinitas, CA)
    The Rhoades School is a private coeducational day school for grades K-8, located in Encinitas, California. The Rhoades School was established in 1980 to provide a safe haven for the intellectual, creative and human potential of very able children. The children at the Rhoades school receive individual attention from a faculty and staff committed to contributing to each student's fulfillment and happiness as adults.
    Roxbury Latin School (Boston, MA)
    At Roxbury Latin, we care, most of all, what kind of person a boy is. We adhere to the original mission set forth by our founders: to prepare students intellectually, morally, and spiritually for service in the world as leaders of integrity and conviction. Every aspect of our program supports our core values of honesty, responsibility, humility, respect and concern for others.
    Sage School (Foxboro, MA)
    The Sage School is a private co-educational day school for gifted students ages 3.9 to 14 years of age. Established more than 25 years ago, Sage is a leader in gifted education, drawing students from around the Greater Boston and Providence areas. Sage offers academically advanced students a challenging curriculum using an interdisciplinary approach. Class sizes are small with two co-teachers allowing for greater individualized instruction, always keeping high-ability students engaged and inspired. Sage’s academics are balanced by fine and performing arts program as well as foreign languages. Students have the opportunity to participate in a wide selection of extracurricular clubs and activities. Transportation and financial aid are available.
    Scholar Search Associates
    With information on independent schools and programs across the nation, this website can be useful when searching for opportunities for gifted students. Articles on schools from a number of viewpoints are also provided.
    Seabury Hall (Makawao, HI)
    Seabury Hall is an independent school affiliated with the Episcopal Church serving grades 6 through 12 on the island of Maui in Hawaii. The school is designed to prepare students for successful college and university work; move students to develop mind, body and soul; and cause students to realize their responsibility to community.
    Seabury School (Tacoma, WA)
    Seabury School is a private, coeducational day school for grades Pre-k-8 located in Tacoma, Washington. The school's mission is to challenge gifted children in a community that cherishes each individual and fosters a love of learning, discovery, and creativity. Accredited by the Northwest Association of Independent Schools, Seabury is focused on educating the whole child – intellectual/academic, social/emotional and developmental. The school nurtures students' curiosity, helps them pursue their passions, lets their readiness and interests guide the pace and depth of learning, and supports gifted kids in a community that “gets” them.
    Seattle Country Day School (Seattle, WA)
    Seattle Country Day School is a private coeducational day school for grades K-8, located in Seattle, Washington. Our mission is to provide an extraordinary educational experience for children of high intellectual and creative promise.
    Sterling Montessori Academy and Charter School (Morrisville, NC)
    Sterling Montessori Academy and Charter School is comprised of two separate educational entities. The Academy serves children ages 3 to 5, and is a tuition-based program. The Charter School serves children ages 6 to 14, which includes kindergarten through 8th grade. Each institution has individualized admissions procedures.
    Summers-Knoll School (Ann Arbor, MI)
    Summers-Knoll School is a private coed day school for gifted students in grades K-8, located in Ann Arbor, Mich. Through individualized instruction, students can progress at their own academic pace and are not pitted competitively against each other, but challenged to improve relative to their own performances. Summers-Knoll students learn to take on increased responsibility for their own learning as they mature.
    Sunrise Learning Lab (Wesley Chapel, FL)
    The Sunrise Learning Lab Gifted Pilot Program serves highly and profoundly gifted students, ages 9-13. It provides a completely individualized, customized program, with partial scholarships available.
    Sycamore School (Indianapolis, IN)
    Sycamore School provides a full-time educational program to meet the needs of academically gifted students. The faculty sets criteria for evaluating students' academic progress, and it promotes and expects the development of personal responsibility, task commitment, self-discipline, independent learning, and respectful conduct. High standards of behavior and performance, as well as high aptitude, are expected.
    Talcott Mountain Academy for Science, Math & Technology (Avon, CT)
    This small private school is for "intellectually excited" students and focuses on science, math & technology. It has its own weather station including Doppler, TV station, hypospherium, planetarium, observatory and state of the art computer labs. The 4th through 8th grade program has been well established for over 15 years, and the Primary school (grades K-3) opened in 2000.
    The Knox School of Santa Barbara (CA)
    The Knox School of Santa Barbara is a private school serving kindergarten through 8th grade and specifically designed for the gifted learner. Their mission is to provide a stimulating and nurturing environment where, alongside an engaging and challenging curriculum, the social and emotional needs of gifted and talented students are respected and compassionately supported.
    The School of Choice (San Jose, CA)
    The South Bay's only school for the gifted, grades 4-12, with a strong AP program and capacity to handle gifted and challenged children. Students get a classical education, which challenges them to read great books and ideas in each of the arts and sciences. The intellectual freedom and rigor encourage students to think critically and imaginatively as they develop character and leadership abilities; they will become mature adults who can solve the world's problems.
    The Williams School (New London, CT)
    The Williams School is a coeducational day, college-preparatory school for students in grades 7-12. The Williams School encourages learning and self-discovery in a collegial atmosphere that provides academic challenges and personal rewards. Williams engenders respectful and collaborative relationships throughout all facets of the community.
    Thomas Jefferson School (St. Louis, MO)
    Thomas Jefferson School is a private, coeducational, residential day school for grades 7-12, located in St. Louis, Missouri. At TJ, we have students from cities and towns of all sizes, from any states, and from around the world. We are a community of diverse minds linked by a shared interest in learning.

  • Schools & Programs: Math & Science Programs

    Academy for Science & Design (Nashua, NH)
    Designed for students in grades 7 through 12 specializing in science, mathematics, engineering and design, this open enrollment public charter school offers seven areas of specialization, ranging from Architecture to Computer Science to Aeronautics and more.
    AlphaStar Academy (Santa Clara, CA)
    AlphaStar Academy offers extensive training programs for gifted students towards national and international Math and Science competitions such as MathCounts, American Mathematics Competitions, USA Math Olympiads, USA Computing Olympiads, F=ma, and USA Physics Olympiads.
    Art of Inquiry
    Art of Inquiry is an online school that presents unique interactive, multi-year astrobiology curriculum for bright 9-12 yr old students. Students are welcomed into an open field of space science, fostering their curiosity and sense of wonder. The courses are developed and taught by Julia Brodsky, an astrophysicist by training with many years of experience teaching International Space Station astronauts and flight controllers as well as K-12 students.
    eIMACS - e-Institute for Mathematics and Computer Science
    eIMACS, the distance learning division of the Institute for Mathematics & Computer Science (IMACS), is dedicated to delivering the highest quality interactive math and computer science classes for gifted and talented secondary school students. University-level, online courses include Advanced Mathematical Logic, University Computer Science, AP Computer Science, and Test Prep for the AP Computer Science and AP Calculus exams. eIMACS is based in Plantation, Florida, and serves students from across the US and around the world, including homeschoolers, students without access to AP Computer Science, and students who want to study advanced math and computer science at their own pace. For high school level courses for talented middle school-aged children, consider Elements of Mathematics: Foundations (EMF).
    Elements of Mathematics: Foundations (EMF)
    EMF is a self-contained, self-study program from the Institute for Mathematics & Computer Science (IMACS) that allows gifted and talented students to complete all of middle and high school mathematics except calculus before leaving middle school. The EMF curriculum exposes students to subject areas not found in the standard curriculum such as operational systems, set theory, number theory, abstract algebra, and probability and statistics. For university-level, online courses in computer science and mathematical logic, consider eIMACS.
    Idea Math (Various Locations)
    The IDEA MATH program was created to help talented students who want to advance their problem solving skills - both to expand their mathematical horizons, and to maximize their performance in math competitions. They offer the following for students entering 6th to 12th grade: weekend program; winter program (AMC 123); summer program; and an online program.
    Ideaventions Academy for Mathematics and Science (Reston, VA)
    This is an independent school for the gifted offering grades 4th–12th, where passionate teachers help intellectually-curious students with an interest in math and science pursue their interests as part of a lively community ​and through engaging experiences.
    Mott Hall School (New York, NY)
    The Mott Hall Intermediate School, located in the Harlem / Washington Heights section of New York City, is dedicated to the academic and personal development of students who will become tomorrow's leaders. In the classrooms and corridors of Mott Hall, a dynamic educational process--shared by innovative teachers and eager students--reflects the dedication to empowerment and love of learning that underlines the School's mission and spirit. By offering academic and life skills training for the whole child, Mott Hall graduates become life-long learners and doers.
    STEM High and Academy (Highlands Ranch, CO)
    This small charter school is designed to offer a new and innovative opportunity for students. The goal is to become a premier public high school for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in Colorado and the nation.
    Storming Robots (Branchburg, NJ)
    Storming Robots provides year-round robotics engineering and technology education for talented youth from Grades 4 to 12. Engineering challenges that are not commonly present at grade-school levels are offered. Through the engineering process, students are engaged in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with hands-on, application-based robotics projects. During the summer, it also offers college level computer science for high school students, known as Summer Storming Robots.
    University of Minnesota Talented Youth Mathematics Program (UMTYMP) (Minneapolis, MN)

    UMTYMP provides a challenging alternative for Minnesota’s talented mathematics students in grades 6-12. The highly accelerated courses are specially designed to provide these students with an intense academic experience that will stimulate their mathematical interest and abilities. The program, offered through the University of Minnesota School of Mathematics Center for Educational Programs (MathCEP), is partially supported by an appropriation from the State of Minnesota. Students currently in grades 5-7 are identified and recommended by their schools as eligible for entering UMTYMP at the Algebra level. The University of Minnesota also offers an affiliated Saturday Enrichment program.

  • Schools & Programs: Public

    Academy for Advanced & Creative Learning (Colorado Springs, CO)
    A K-8th grade charter school, serving
    advanced, gifted, twice-exceptional and typical learners who want to excel! AACL provides personal learning plans, advanced content, hands-on porjects, thematic units, and is tuition free with no admission requirements.
    Academy for Gifted and Talented (Huntsville, AL)
    This school supports the needs of gifted learners in grades 6-8 through integrated curriculum and problem-based projects in addition to acceleration, compacting, extended learning opportunities, field studies, mentorships, and inquiry based units of study built around student interest and strengths.
    Accelerated Learning Lab Classroom (A.L.L.) (American Fork, UT)
    An Advanced Learning Lab (A.L.L.) classroom is composed of 30 or more students who have tested with the district on nationally normed tests and have shown ability for advancement in academic learning.
    Alabama School of Fine Arts (Birmingham, AL)
    Located in Birmingham, The Alabama School of Fine Arts is a public coeducational day and residential school for grades 7 through 12. Students who are residents of Alabama pay no tuition to attend. Out of state students pay tuition. There is a fee for room and board. The school offers students the opportunity to explore the frontiers of their own talents. Specialty programs in Creative Writing, Dance, Mathematics and Science, Music, Theatre Arts and Visual Arts, plus a distinguished core academic program.
    Aspen Creek K- 8 School - Boulder Valley School District (Broomfield, CO)
    This elementary and middle school has been identified as allowing acceleration for profoundly gifted students.
    Beacon Academy (Maple Grove, MN)
    Opened in the fall of 2004 with grades K-3, Beacon Academy, a tuition-free public school, has two classes per grade covering K-8. Enrollment is approximately 400 students and the school is located in the lower level of the Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove. What makes Beacon Academy different from most other Core Knowledge schools is the inclusion of comprehensive Spanish instruction at each grade level. Spanish is used daily to enrich specific lessons in many classrooms. Beacon Academy is not an immersion school but a FLES-language program that includes daily instruction in Spanish along with supplemental Spanish instruction in other curricula areas. This school has been identified as allowing acceleration for profoundly gifted students.
    Bridges Community Academy (BCA) (Tiffin, OH)
    This tution-free academy is a public, coeducational, charter school for ages 8-14, located in Tiffin, Ohio. BCA is targeted to serve the needs of students from Seneca and surrounding counties who have been identified as gifted and talented.
    Buist Academy (Charleston, SC)
    Buist Academy is a gifted & talented elementary and middle school for exceptionally bright children.
    Challenge School (Denver, CO)
    Challenge School is a public coeducational day magnet school within the Cherry Creek School District, for grades K-8, located in Denver, Colorado.
    Christa McAuliffe Intermediate School 187 (Brooklyn, NY)
    Christa McAuliffe IS 187 is a gifted middle school in Brooklyn, NEw York. The Christa McAuliffe school provides a comprehensive educational experience for all students. Fifth-grade students in District 20 are eligible for admission into IS 187 based on their ELA, Math and OLSAT scores.
    Digital Learning Center for the Gifted (AZ)
    Course content is based on major thematic elements found in the Arizona State Standards for seventh grade and eighth grades. By featuring thematic elements, the content encompasses multiple subjects simultaneously.
    Discovery Academy (Edgewater, FL)
    Discovery Academy is a private coeducational day school for grades PK-8, located in Edgewater, Florida. The director and founder of this school is the parent of a profoundly gifted child and has created a learning environment that appears to be very gifted-friendly. The school claims that most of their students are working above typical grade level by 2-3 years. Each student is assessed and given appropriate level materials in every subject.
    Discovery Public Charter School (San Jose, CA)
    This public charter school, which has grades K-8 with K-5 as elementary and 6-8 as middle school, allows grade acceleration as well as subject acceleration in math.
    Dr. Joseph S. Renzulli Gifted and Talented Academy (Hartford, CT)
    The Renzulli Academy in Hartford, CT is an inner city school designed for students who have a passion for learning and are capable of gifted performance. Students not only share academic talents, a knack for curiosity and high levels of task commitment, but they also display an abundance of additional gifts and talents that extend beyond the formal classroom. They are original thinkers who are open to discovering their gifts in a creative educational setting. Students are characterized by intrinsic motivation, creativity and high aptitude.
    Eagle Rock High School Gifted Magnet (Los Angeles, CA)
    Eagle Rock High School, a public coeducational day school, has a gifted magnet for grades 7-9. The campus is also immediately adjacent to Occidental College, a liberal arts college with high academic standards. It is an enriched and unique educational setting based on comprehensive educational needs. The Magnet provides maximum opportunities for all participating students to achieve their potential, and it recognizes, promotes, and teaches critical-thinking skills in a positive multiethnic and humanistic environment.
    EAGLE School (Madison, WI)
    This private, coeducational day school for grades K-8 is dedicated to serving the educational needs of gifted and talented children. Students are allowed to move as quickly as they can through basic subjects without unnecessary repetition or drill. They then have time to pursue those subjects at a more complex level, to explore new areas, or to develop other skills and talents.
    Edison Regional Gifted Center (Chicago, IL)
    Edison Regional Gifted Center is a school built upon the dedication of great educators and very supportive parents. Since 1975, Edison Regional Gifted Center has welcomed thousands of gifted and high-ability students through its doors and graduated some of the most well-prepared, disciplined and top-performing students in the state.
    Federal Way Public Academy (Federal Way, WA)
    FWPA is a school of choice for parents and students in the Federal Way Public Schools, which means it is an option to enroll. Public Academy is a college-preparatory school that emphasizes a challenging "traditional" academic curriculum for every student in every subject. The school will provide the optimum conditions in which students perform at their best in which individual attention, that can only be found in a small school whose setting is low stress, high challenge, and allows for creative freedom, under the guidance of a faculty that understands and truly enjoys working with adolescents.
    Florida Virtual School (FLVS)
    FLVS is an established leader in developing and providing virtual education solutions to students throughout the country. This online school works in conjuction with public schools (does not issue diplomas) and is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and The Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation.
    Fred J. Carnage Magnet Middle School (Raleigh, NC)

    The Fred J. Carnage Middle School AG Basics program is based on research showing that academically gifted students have exceptional potential which must recognized, nurtured, challenged, and expanded.

    The philosophy of the AG Basics program is implemented through curriculum and instructional strategies that provide differentiated services to match students' gifted characteristics.

    Golda Meir School (Milwaukee, WI)
    A public school, grades 3-8 Golda Meir's Gifted and Talented Program dates back to the early 70s and Milwaukee's magnet school program. On May 4, 1979 Golda Meir School, which began as 4th Street School, was renamed and re-dedicated in honor of Golda Meir (Prime Minister of Israel) who attended the school from 1906-1909. Golda Meir provides a challenging curriculum for 260 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students who come from the city of Milwaukee and from the nearby suburbs.
    Horizons Program of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (Charlotte, NC)
    Horizons is the district’s self-contained gifted program designed to meet the needs of highly gifted students whose intellectual, academic, and affective needs exceed beyond those of other gifted students in regular classrooms. The program offers a learning environment and advanced curriculum for same-aged peers in four of the content areas from kindergarten to eighth grade, including English and Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. The program emphasizes not only academic and intellectual rigor but also emotional and social growth for a wide range of highly gifted children from all backgrounds.
    Longfellow Middle School - Fairfax County Public Schools (Falls Church, VA)
    This middle school has been identified as allowing acceleration for profoundly gifted students.
    Manchester GATE School (Fresno, CA)
    Manchester GATE School is a 2-6 grade magnet school in the Fresno Unified School District. This elementary school offers a multitude of opportunities in academics and extra-curriculars for gifted and talented students.
    Metrolina Regional Scholars' Academy (Charlotte, NC)
    This public charter school, designed for children of extremely high intellectual ability in grades K-8, provides numerous enrichment classes. The goal of the Academy is to provide an environment tailored to the unique needs of gifted children.
    Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) - Gifted and Talented Education (Nashville, TN)
    Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) serves Gifted and Talented students through the Encore Program. Students eligible for this program are in kindergarten through sixth grade. Encore classes meet one-half day each week in local schools.
    Millburn School (Wadsworth, IL)
    Millburn School is a public coeducational day school for grades K-8, located in Wadsworth, Illinois. Millburn is committed to efficiently preparing students to become productive, responsible members of a changing world by providing a nurturing environment that stimulates a voluntary desire to learn and educational experiences that rigorously promote the realization of individual potential and excellence in achievement.
    Missouri - Kansas City Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) (Kansas City, MO)
    The Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) program identifies and serves exceptionally gifted students in a full-time academic environment appropriate for their unique needs in the Center School District located in Kansas City, Missouri.
    Missouri - St. Louis Regional Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) (St. Louis, MO)
    The St. Louis Regional Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) is a full time public gifted program in the St. Louis metropolitan area (Pattonville School District) featuring acceleration and enrichment for students grades 1-12 (or equivalent ages) with two separately administered and funded branches--a South Campus housed in the Lindbergh school district and a North Campus located in the Pattonville school district.
    Missouri - University City Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) - University City, MO
    In the school district of University City, the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program is offered off-site for a limited number of qualifying students in grades two (2) through twelve (12) who qualify as being exceptionally gifted.
    New School Preparatory (Orlando, FL)
    New School Preparatory provides students from K-8 a demanding and comprehensive academic curriculum geared toward Gardner’s multiple intelligences. New School provides an environment that promotes intellectual independence, creativity, and a sense of responsibility to community. The interdisciplinary academic curriculum includes language arts, science and technology, mathematics, the humanities, foreign language, and visual and performing arts. Unique learning experiences and hands-on activities encourage students to visualize concepts and promote understanding.
    Newcomb Academy (Long Beach, CA)
    Newcomb Academy is a K-8 school in Long Beach, Calif. Newcomb continues to rank among the highest achieving schools in the state. Newcomb’s success is directly related to the collaboration, hard work and dedication of students, teachers, school staff, parents, business partners and the community.
    Nysmith School for the Gifted (Herndon, VA)
    This day school accepts students pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. The curriculum cornerstones are mathematics and reading; students also work on computers, science, social studies, French, logic, music, and art. Students are grouped chronologically by age and move through classes as a group. Two teachers per classroom facilitate individualized student learning plans. Details regarding curriculum, tuition, and special events are included on the web site.
    Odyssey Program (Spokane, WA)
    The Spokane Public Schools elementary and middle school Odyssey Program is a full-day, everyday gifted magnet program at Libby Center for fifth through eighth grade students. Students who qualify for the district's Tessera Program, also qualify and may apply for enrollment in the Odyssey program as fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth graders.
    Opportunities for Learning Environment for Advanced Programming (LEAP) (Chapel Hill, NC)
    LEAP is a district-wide, self-contained option for qualified highly gifted students who demonstrate mastery of curriculum that is two or more grade levels above their age peers in Grades 4-8.
    Oxford Academy (Cypress, CA)
    The mission of this school is to prepare students to be ethically and academically focused for entrance into college/university. OA is a seventh through twelfth grade college preparatory public school that opened in September of 1998. Recognized as a California Distinguished School, OA draws students from the entire attendance area of the Anaheim Union High School District.
    Palmetto Scholars Academy (Charleston, SC)
    Palmetto Scholars Academy (PSA) is designed to provide a differentiated program designed to meet the educational needs of intellectually gifted learners, address their distinctive social and emotional needs, promote individual character development and instill a life-long love of learning.
    Portland Public Schools - ACCESS Alternative Program for Highly Gifted Students (Portland, OR)
    The ACCESS Alternative Program is designed for only the most highly capable students in the Portland, Oregon area. With grades 1 through 8, ACCESS is located in Rose City Park. ACCESS serves the needs of students who have a high degree of asynchrony between subjects. Both the abilities and needs of the candidate are considered during the application process. ACCESS accepts applications from students in the Portland Metropolitan area.
    Portola Highly Gifted Magnet Center (Los Angeles, CA)
    The Highly Gifted Magnet (HGM) at Portola Middle School, LAUSD, is an academically challenging program comprised of students from all parts of Los Angeles in grades 6-8. English, history, mathematics and science are taught in honors classes where students receive educational stimulation commensurate with their ability; they are constantly challenged and provided with individualized attention.
    Quest (Buffalo, MN)
    The Quest program is a school-within-a-school program for highly gifted students located in the Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose School District. Students in the program have accelerated or enriched classes in mathematics, science, English and social studies, as well as the opportunity to participate in special programs such as Math Masters.
    Rainard School (Houston, TX)
    Rainard School is a private coeducational day school for academically gifted students in grades PreK-8, located in Houston. Rainard School embraces the needs of gifted children by nurturing the individual's intellectual growth, social skills, and emotional development in an environment that inspires the joy of learning.
    Ricks Center for Gifted Children (Denver, CO)
    Ricks Center for Gifted Children is a private coedcuational day school for preschool through middle school grades, located in Denver, Colorado. In cooperation with the College of Education [at the University of Denver], Rick's Center provides model program services to students who show exceptional, differentiated ability and learning needs.
    Roosevelt Middle School - River Forest Public Schools District 90 (River Forest, IL)
    With grades 5-8, this public middle school offers an "Academically Talented Program" for about 1/3 of the students, where the curriculum is one year accelerated, and students are permitted to accelerate beyond that.
    Saginaw Arts & Sciences Academy (SASA) (Saginaw, MI)
    Saginaw Arts & Sciences Academy (SASA) provides learning opportunities for gifted/talented students at the middle and high school levels. All school programs are open to students from Saginaw County, Michigan and surrounding areas and counties. Students who have an interest in SASA must complete all entrance requirements.
    Science & Arts Academy (SAA) (Des Plaines, IL)
    Science & Arts Academy (SAA) is an independent, non-denominational, co-educational, not-for-profit day school for students preschool through middle school. The unifying mission of SAA is to provide a stimulating environment in which intellectually or creatively gifted children can realize and learn to celebrate their full academic and artistic potential.
    Sonoran Sky Elementary School - Paradise Valley Unified School District (Scottsdale, AZ)
    The Self-Contained Gifted Program located at Sonoran Sky Elementary School serves highly and profoundly gifted students in grades K through 6. The Self-Contained Gifted Program is designed for high achieving, highly gifted students whose needs may not be met by the other gifted programs offered in the district. In this program, students generally work two or more years beyond grade level with intellectual peers.
    Soundview School (Lynnwood, WA)
    Soundview School is a private coeducational day school for grades PK-8, located in Lynnwood, Washington. We believe that highly capable children enthusiastically nurtured in a strong academic and creative environment will become highly capable young adults for whom adventure, honor, and success are joyously routine.
    Steppingstone School for the Gifted (Farmington Hills, MI)
    Steppingstone School is dedicated to addressing the unique, individualized, and often-asynchronous developmental needs that face many gifted children in the elementary age group. By nurturing and supporting gifted children through academic, social and emotional development, Steppingstone believes that the child's chance of success can be greatly enhanced. Steppingstone's mission is to provide an environment that will enable our students to become confident, generous, and inquisitive learners who will have the foundation upon which to become leaders.
    The Anderson School (New York, NY)
    This New York public school (PS334) provides accelerated education for students in grades K-8. Its program is designed to meet the specific needs of children with superior intellectual potential. Their commitment is to the whole child: balancing social, emotional and academic development in a stimulating environment where children can become producers as well as consumers of knowledge.
    The Country Day School (Huntsville, AL)
    A strongly held belief that learning should be a joyful experience, consisting not only of the mastery of academic skills, but also of growth in creative and critical thinking, underlies the foundations of this school. Programs center on activities designed to build skills and self-assurance.
    The Einstein Academy (Elgin, IL)
    The Einstein Academy believes that education is a collaborative experience. Parents, teachers, and students work together as a team to maximize each student's learning potential. This school guarantees class sizes will never exceed 12 students.
    The Montessori School of San Antonio (TX)
    This is a private coeducational day school for ages 3-14, located in San Antonio, Texas. The mission of the Judson Montessori School is to provide a personalized education, using the Montessori method and philosophy, to support each student's development while fostering a love of learning.
    The Rubicon Academy (The Woodlands, TX)
    This private, nonsectarian academy serves gifted and talented students, pre-K through 8th grade, in the north metro Houston, Texas area. In groups of two to 12 students, each student receives instruction tailored to his/her particular needs. In addition, students have the opportunity to travel to museums, art galleries and work places in order to enhance classroom learning.
    Universal Middle School at Sunset Middle (Longmont, CO)
    The Universal Middle School Program (UMS) is designed to meet the needs of high achieving and gifted students who want to pursue learning at a higher level, faster pace, or independently.
    University Scholars Program (West Chester, PA)
    The University Scholars Program, within the PA Leadership Charter School (PALCS), offers specialized gifted education curriculum. The Program is designed to maximize the intellectual potential of gifted and motivated learners, where individual achievement is valued and supported. Only PALCS students may apply for participation in this high performance/high achieving program.
    Walnut Hills High School (Cincinnati, OH)
    This school is nationally recognized as one of America’s top public schools. Walnut Hills offers an advanced, accelerated curriculum for six grade levels, an Honors Program and College Board Advanced Placement Program with 28 courses, and more.
    Washington Gifted School (Peoria, IL)
    We believe that every child should be educated to his or her fullest potential. In doing this we must provide programs which will challenge our most capable students. Washington School is committed to serving the special needs of intellectually gifted students with educational opportunities that are qualitatively different. The program is based on the belief that the special needs of intellectually gifted students require curriculum and instruction that emphasize critical thinking and creative problem solving.
    Webster Academy Visions in Education (WAVE) - Clear Creek Independent School District (Webster, TX)
    Webster Academy Visions in Education is Clear Creek ISD's gifted and talented magnet school for grades 6-8. WAVE offers inter-disciplinary, differentiated academic classes tied to universal themes, real world issues, and state-mandated TEKS.
    Western Center Academy (Hamlet, CA)
    The Western Center Academy (WCA) is a Hemet Unified School District-sponsored charter school serving students in southwest Riverside County. The school’s curriculum includes an integrated, inquiry based 6th - 8th grade curriculum closely aligned with California state and national standards in the core areas of science, math, English, and social studies.

  • Schools & Programs: Saturday Program

    Space Voyage Academy - Summer Programs, Weekend Programs (Littleton, CO)
    Space Voyage programs bring to life the importance of math and science, reinforces concepts identified in academic content standards, build confidence through genuine achievement and offer a fun place for kids to imagine the possibilities, learn and grow. Parents of gifted children report that the program is challenging and supportive of their gifted children. The Summer Camp offers 10 weeks to choose from for ages 5-16.
    University of Minnesota - Saturday Enrichment (Minneapolis, MN)

    MathCEP offers enrichment Saturday programs during the school year that provide grade 5-7 students with opportunities to learn and enjoy mathematics. The primary objective is to offer innovative activities focused on a variety of mathematics topics that take students further than a standard school curriculum. Each program encourages participants to explore mathematics and its scientific applications from different perspectives based on specific mathematics themes. The University of Minnesota also offers the affiliated Talented Youth Mathematics Program (UMTYMP).

    Vanderbilt Program for Talented Youth - SAVY (Grades K-6) – Saturday/Summer Academy at Vanderbilt for the Young (Nashville, TN)
    SAVY – Saturday Academy at Vanderbilt for the Young Day Program – Held each fall and spring, students in grades K-6 engage with like-ability peers in accelerated courses over six consecutive Saturdays.

    SAVY – Summer Academy at Vanderbilt for the Young Day Program – Each summer, rising 1st-7th grade students take part in a variety of advanced courses taught by content experts. Weekly sessions are available for all grades in the months of June and July.
    Vanderbilt Program for Talented Youth - Weekend Academy at Vanderbilt University (WAVU) (Nashville, TN)
    The Weekend Academy is held for one full Saturday each Fall and Spring for qualifying 7th to 10th grade students. WAVU provides students with an in-depth look at careers in math, science, and engineering, and the humanities. WAVU also provides an opportunity for students to come together to learn and collaborate with a group of like-ability peers. Accelerated laboratory courses are led by professionals in their field to provide students with the opportunity of career exploration.
    Weekend Institute for Gifted Students (WINGS) (Iowa City, IA)
    Belin-Blank Center offers half-day weekend enrichment opportunities for elementary and junior high students. Classes include science, art, math, writing, computer science and social studies.

  • Summer Programs: International

    Broadreach
    Broadreach is a world leader in educational adventure travel camps for teenagers with more than 35 trips to more than 30 countries. The programs inspire leadership development, skill building, personal growth and global awareness. The camps include Carribean - dive, sail, explore; marine biology; outdoor skills and leadership; community service; and, academic adventures.
    LatinSummer Rome
    For Students in Grades 5-8 (including homeschooled students) and their Parents to learn Latin in Rome during this summer enrichment program that brings the ancient Roman world to life. Explore the arena where gladiators and beasts fought long ago, race along the tracks of ancient chariots, perform a play on the same stage as ancient actors, approach Rome along the queen of roads, and much more! No prior knowledge of Latin or the Classics is required.
    Summer Scholars (Dublin, Ireland)
    This program is hosted at Dublin City University (DCU) and is designed for students ages 12 through 17. A wide range of academic courses are available for students to choose from. Students stay at DCU for the two week program.

  • Summer Programs: MidAtlantic Region

    Advanced Studies Leadership Program (Buzzards Bay, MA)
    A 3-week summer college-like residential experience that emphasizes leadership and development and project oriented instruction in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) areas and the humanities for high achieving students from the Cape Cod Collaborative member districts.
    Global Youth Village (Bedford, VA)
    Global Youth Village (GYV) is an international summer training program for young people 13-18 located in Bedford, VA. GYV is a micro-model of the world community filled with the music, laughter, food, arts and aspirations of our diverse humanity. The program offers stimulating workshops in music, dialogue and conflict resolution, global issues, environmental issues and mass media. Here future leaders expand their minds, skills and horizons. With trust, cooperation and enthusiasm, they cross barriers of ethnicity and race, gender and religion. Discover how to make a difference both locally and globally.
    Saturday & Summer Enrichment Program, University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA)
    In coordination with the Curry School of Education, the Saturday and Summer Enrichment Program (SEP) seeks to offer gifted and/or high ability students a rich and rewarding learning experience. Modeling best practices in curriculum and instruction, the SEP staff works as a community to maximize potential in each student and foster a passion for lifelong learning. SEP hosts two programs throughout the year. The Saturday program serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade and the Summer residential program hosts students in rising fifth through eleventh grade.
    Summer Enrichment Program - University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA)
    Students who are currently enrolled in grades 4 - 10 may apply to attend a two-week session in our program where curriculum emphasis will be on extending a student's capabilities in problem-solving, creativity and critical examination and evaluation of content rich fields of study. Areas that are new or of special interest to students will be investigated through hands-on simulations, demonstrations, lectures, discussion and/or individual or small group investigations. The 9th - 11th grade program will also emphasize the acquisition and practice of research skills within advanced topic areas.
    Wesleyan Summer Gifted Program (Buckhannon, WV)
    Wesleyan Summer Gifted Program is a unique program offering advanced classes to highly gifted students in a college setting. Students are housed in college dorms for the two-week period and taught by college professors in the areas of mathematics, environmental science, computer science, physics, creative writing, and history. Gifted students in grades 5-12 are accepted.
    West Virginia Governor's STEM Institute (GSI) (Charleston, WV)
    Formerly the West Virginia Governor's School for Mathematics and Science (GSMS). Recognizing that the scientific and mathematic discoveries have made a difference in the world were developed over long periods of time by motivated, dedicated, thorough, and creative minds, the State of West Virginia offers the Governor's STEM Institute, inviting students to delve into projects that allow them the time and opportunity to think and work like scientists and engineers, using high level mathematics and thinking skills while employing the latest technology.
    Xploration for Middle School Students - Julian Krinsky Camps and Programs (Haverford, PA)
    Julian Krinsky Xploration is an opportunity for students 10 to 13 years old to enjoy learning, sports and activities on a classically beautiful tree-lined campus. Held at Haverford College on Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line, Xploration offers expert instruction in the arts, sciences, sports, popular culture and dozens of fascinating subjects specially selected for the interests of middle school students.

  • Summer Programs: Midwestern Region

    Calvin College, Academic Camps of Excellence (ACE) (Grand Rapids, MI)
    Academic Camps of Excellence (ACE) are summer camps for gifted middle school students in math, science, literature, computer science and economics. Sponsored by Calvin College and the Kent County Association for Gifted and Talented, the camp courses take place at Calvin College in Grand Rapids.
    Central Honors Institute (Columbus, NE)
    Central Honors Institute (CHI) at Central Community College in Columbus, Nebraska, is a one-week residential academic camp for Nebraska students who have completed the sixth or seventh grades and have demonstrated academic accomplishments, leadership and maturity among their peers. During the week, students choose to follow a particular academic track, either math or media/communications, led by CHI faculty.
    Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) Summer Programs (Durham, NC)
    Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) offers many summer options for students the opportunity to learn highly challenging material at rates commensurate with their advanced abilities. Duke TIP is a global leader in identifying academically gifted students and providing them with opportunities to support their development.
    Gifted Education Resource Insititute (GERI) Summer Youth Program - Purdue University (West Lafayette, IN)
    The Summer Residential Programs sponsored by the Gifted Education Resource Institute offer "accelerated and enriched learning experiences in mathematics, science, the humanities, and the arts" for academically talented youth. Enrichment programs for ages 4 through 4th grade, as well as residential summer camps for students in grades 5-12 are available. The program also presents the opportunity for students to interact and establish lasting friendships with cognitive peers.
    Kids and College - McHenry County College (Crystal Lake, IL)
    Kids and College is an expanded enrichment program for all students in grades pre-kindergarten through 12th. Classes are designed for four different age categories to help all students explore new interests, gain additional skills, and start the process of life long learning. Programs include: Discovery Crew PreK to 3rd Grade; Kids on Campus 4th to 8th Grade (Summer Program); Investigators 4th to 8th Grade; Home School Connections 4th to 12th Grade; and, G.O.L.D. 9th to 12th Grade.
    Michigan State University (MSU) - Crime Scene Investigation Forensic Science Program (East Lansing, MI)
    The CSI Forensic Science Crime Scene Program at Michigan State University is a residential and commuter program. The curriculum is intended for academically able students who are currently in 7th, 8th, or 9th grade and at least 12 years old. Students will be working in a university setting with professionals who work in the field of forensic science.
    Michigan State University (MSU) - Future DOcs (East Lansing, MI)
    Future DOcs–GATE is a one-week summer commuter camp held on the campus of Michigan State University in partnership with the College of Osteopathic Medicine. The camp is intended for academically able students, who are currently in grades 7, 8, or 9.
    Michigan State University (MSU) - Mathematics Science and Technology (MST) (East Lansing, MI)
    This Michigan State University (MSU) Mathematics Science and Technology (MST) program is a two-week residential program for academically talented students who are currently in Grade 7, 8, or 9. The goal is to match the intellectual abilities of talented adolescents with rigorous and challenging course work which provides enrichment, but does not duplicate or accelerate course work in the K-12 curriculum. The program is held each July and financial assistance is available.
    South Dakota Governor's Camp - University of South Dakota (Vermillion, SD)
    The South Dakota Governor's Camp is open to high ability students in grades 7-9 . Past camps have hosted over 3,600 campers from more than 100 different communities all over the state. Campers will have the opportunity to have: Academic experiences with University of South Dakota (USD) faculty and staff; Enrichment experiences under the guidance of trained leader; Recreational programs utilizing USD campus facilities, including the DakotaDome; A full schedule of challenging experiences and the opportunity to interact with other high ability students.
    Spartan Engineering for Teens, Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)
    Spartan Engineering for Teens is a five day residential camp at Michigan State University. Students in 8th and 9th grade with an interest in science and engineering are eligible to apply. The camp aims to help students further their science and engineering skills, specifically in the study of Wireless Integrated Microsystems.
    Summer Program for Verbally and Mathematically Precocious Youth (VAMPY) (Bowling Green, KY)
    VAMPY is a 3-week residential Summer Program for very bright students who are currently enrolled in grades seven through ten and is designed to provide a balance of educational, cultural, and recreational experiences for high ability young people.
    Summer Youth Camps, Western Illinois University (Macomb, IL)
    Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois, offers a variety of summer camps for students in 4th through 11th grade. Residential and days camps are available. The camps are focused on a variety of topics including science, art for gifted students, literature, and math.
    Summer@IMSA - Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora, IL)
    Science, mathematics and technology take the center stage in Summer@IMSA programs as students utilize discovery, exploration and problem-solving in innovative ways. Programs are being planned for numerous locations in Illinois. These programs are for all students entering grades 3 through 10, who have an interest or passion for math and science.
    Summerscape at Drury University (Springfield, MO)
    Summerscape, a summer program for gifted children who are currently enrolled in grades 6, 7 or 8 is held on the Drury University campus in Springfield, Missouri. (Students register by current grade). Drury's Center for Gifted Education and Springfield Public Schools co-sponsor the program. Gifted students are offered an opportunity to enhance their areas of interest, to investigate new ideas and to interact with their peers in a caring, safe, and fun learning environment. Besides participating in courses not offered in most schools, Summerscape students familiarize themselves with life on a university campus.
    Truman State, Joseph Baldwin Academy for Eminent Young Scholars (Kirksville, MO)
    The Joseph Baldwin Academy for Eminent Young Scholars is for students completing the seventh, eighth, or ninth grade with the purpose to identify and challenge high-ability students at a critical period in their lives. Eight college-level courses comprise the Baldwin Academy's curriculum during first session and eight second session. Each course is taught by a Truman State University faculty member.
    University of Iowa - Belin-Blank Center - Summer Programs (Iowa City, IA)
    At the University of Iowa, Belin-Blank Center Summer Programs students can enjoy taking challenging courses, connecting with interesting classmates, and learning from inspirational teachers. Explore a variety of cultural and recreational activities that encourage friendships and extend your learning outside the classroom. Experience college life as you live, study, and play in university classrooms, laboratories, dining halls, and recreational centers.
    Young Women's Summer Institute (Columbus, OH)
    YWSI is a response to girls’ lack of interest in math, science and engineering and women’s low participation in the science, engineering and technology fields, and in particular, information technology. YWSI introduces girls to exciting careers and job opportunities. FOR OHIO STUDENTS ONLY

  • Summer Programs: National

    Camp Summit for the Gifted, Talented, and Creative (Sausalito, CA & North East, MD)
    This camp offers a unique experience for gifted children and teens from ages 9 through 14 (eight-year-olds will be considered on a case-by-case basis). With locations in the San Francisco Bay Area and Maryland, Camp Summit provides settings for gifted, talented, and creative youth to gather together for a very special summer camp.

  • Summer Programs: Northeastern Region

    Acera Summer STEAM Camp (Winchester, MA)
    Launched in 2015, the Acera summer program extends rich STEAM learning experiences available at the school to the summer months. Open to both Acera and non-Acera students in elementary and middle school, this program offers unique opportunities for STEAM exploration and growth, and engages students in hands-on, contextual learning across disciplines.
    Adventures in Veterinary Medicine (North Grafton, MA)
    Tufts University offers veterinary exploration summer programs for middle and high school students. The middle school program is a one-week, day program offered in April, June and July. Students attend lectures, learn proper animal handling and practice veterinary skills. The high school program is offered as a residential or day camp, and involves attending lectures, shadowing fourth-year veterinary students, and practicing veterinary skills.
    Challenge Day Camp (Hartsdale, NY)
    Challenge Camp offers summer enrichment learning opportunities for bright and curious children ages 4 to 15. Located in Hartsdale, New York on a picturesque campus, Challenge Camp is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) and offers over 100 STEM and Arts courses. These courses range from 3D printing to architecture to chess to cooking to magic to Minecraft to model rocketry to robotics to theater to video production and many options in between. The Afternoon Challenge includes enrichment and sports options to encourage students to challenge both their mind and body. Bus transportation, early drop-off / extended day options are available.
    Connecting with Courage
    The Connecting with Courage expedition is a summer program where girls get physically stronger by sailing, backpacking, or sea kayaking and build mental muscles by exercising their imaginations! Girls are given the opportunity to take on leadership roles and make independent decisions. Connecting with Courage encourages girls to speak their minds, share ideas, express emotions, be creative and challenge themselves through sensible physical risks. At the end of the course, girls leave with wonderful new friendships, enhanced confidence, a greater ability to express themselves and a clearer sense of their strengths.
    Manchester Community College - Excursions in Learning (Manchester, CT)
    Gifted, talented and high-achieving students in kindergarten through eighth grade have the opportunity to take courses in creative writing, visual and performing arts, world cultures, math and sciences, art, and technology through this program at Manchester Community College in Connecticut.
    SPARK - Science for Middle School, Brown University (Providence, RI)
    This pre-College summer experience is where 7th and 8th grade students live on campus, take courses and participate in activities related to their interest and abilities in science. The courses are designed to provide an exposure to intellectual concepts.

  • Summer Programs: Northwestern Region

    Oregon State University (OSU) - Precollege Summer Program (Corvallis, OR)
    OSU's Outside the Box Summer Program enables gifted, talented and creative youth (grades 7and 8) to pursue topics of interest through a unique combination of in-depth, challenging academic explorations and social interaction with intellectual peers. Students can anticipate discovery and challenge in the program's offerings which are designed specifically to address their interests and abilities. In the past, popular courses have included Creative Writing, Cyberspace 101, and Mural Painting.
    Satori Summer Camp (Cheney, WA)
    Satori Summer Camp is for students aged 12-18 located in Cheney, Washington. Satori Camp is proud to present this opportunity for academically and intellectually talented students to experience their first taste of college with others who share their enthusiasm for learning in an academic and social environment. Satori camp allows students to choose three mini-courses from a variety of offerings. Each course is held for approximately two hours a day over the five days of camp. This continuity allows for in-depth exploration of subject material, active inquiry and discussion, and hands-on participation by students.
    University of Oregon Summer Academy to Inspire Learning (Eugene, OR)
    SAIL offers free, week long summer day programs, on the University of Oregon campus. Students learn from distinguished University of Oregon faculty members through fun, social and interactive activities.

  • Summer Programs: Southern Region

    Accelerator - North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (Durham & Brevard, NC)
    The Accelerator summer program at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) offers advanced science and math courses enabling students to explore biotechnology, aerospace engineering, automation, and more. Early Accelerator courses are offered for 7th- through 9th-grade students, and involve a one-week residential experience at NCSSM. Accelerator courses are offered to 10th- through 12th-grade students, and begin with two weeks of online study followed by one-week on campus. Over 30 exciting courses are offered each summer in two locations; their Durham, NC campus and Brevard College in Brevard, NC.
    Carolina Journalism Institute (Columbia, SC)
    This five-day program is for middle and high school students. Students choose a focus tract to study for the duration of the program. Tract choices include Staff Management for Editors and Advisers; Videos and Online Media; Visual (Design and Photography); Writing; and Yearbook Kickstart. Classes are hosted at the University of South Carolina, and students may choose to commute, or camp accommodations are provided by a nearby hotel.
    Carolina Master Scholars Adventure Series (Columbia, SC)
    The University of South Carolina offers this summer program to rising sixth through 12th grade students. The Adventure Series provides a variety of courses for students to select from and offers multiple programs throughout the summer. Residential and day program options are available.
    Clemson University - Summer Science, Engineering and Architecture Enrichment Programs (Clemson, SC)
    For the past 28 years, Clemson University has offered a summer enrichment program for gifted middle and high school students. In addition to challenging courses, students are provided with opportunities for fun, friendship and a Clemson experience. This enrichment program is for rising seventh through 12th grade students.
    Coast Trek (NC) - Summer Program (Wilmington, NC)
    Join MarineQuest to travel back in time to the age of giant prehistoric sharks and discover how North Carolina’s coast has changed over the years. While time traveling through their coastal habitats back to the future, Trekkies will use the tools of oceanography, meteorology and paleontology to experience first-hand how hurricanes and other forces of nature have created the coastline that we see today. The program is for students ages 10-12; participants must have completed 4th grade and turn 10 by May 1st. Residential and commuter programs are available.
    Emory National Debate Institute (Atlanta, GA)
    Emory University offers debate camps to middle school and high school students. Camps run from one to three weeks with residential and day camp options offered.
    G.R.A.D.E. Camp, University of Houston, (Houston, TX)
    Girls entering 8th through 12th grade are eligible to attend G.R.A.D.E. Camp at the University of Houston. The camp is a one week day camp designed to give girls the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with female professionals and students in the engineering field. Students will also have the opportunity to work in teams, design a robot, and learn about careers on engineering.
    Stetson University, High Achieving Talented Students (HATS) (DeLand, FL)
    High Achieving Talented Students (HATS) is a three-part program sponsored by Stetson University. In collaboration with the Belin-Blank International Center for Gifted Education and Talent Development at the University of Iowa, Stetson provides outstanding educational opportunities for high-achieving Florida students in grades 4-9. These opportunities include the HATS Summer Program, above-level testing through the Belin Blank Center's academic talent search and Stetson scholarships.
    Summer Program for G/T Students (STARS) - Xavier University (New Orleans, LA)
    The Summer Program for G/T Students (STARS) at Xavier University in New Orleans is a two-week commuter program for gifted/talented children in grades 1-8. Students choose from many diverse enrichment classes, including creative dramatics, science and technology.
    Summer Scholars Residential Program (Lafayette, LA)
    The Summer Scholars Residential Program is a one-week residential program designed to develop the academic, leadership, and/or creative skills of 7th and 8th grade students who have demonstrated high levels of ability in their school work, in the arts or in their daily lives. The program focuses on academics, the arts, and personal development. Students select from courses designed to develop skills in new content areas or to pursue special interests; although students are encouraged to select a balanced schedule including courses in both academics and the arts, those with intense interests or special abilities in one or two specific areas may concentrate in these areas. Most courses meet 1 1/4 hours per day for five days; although time does not permit in-depth study of any subject, movitated students often make significant advances during the week of the program.

  • Summer Programs: Western Region

    Adventures in Nature, Natural History Museum - Summer Camp (Los Angeles County, CA)
    Explore Earth's features, creatures, and cultures in a one week long day camp program offered in the summer at the Natural History Museum (ages 3-13) or the at the Page Museum at the Tar Pits (ages 7-13). Hands-on experiences and behind the scenes tours and fun activities for children. Full day or half day option.
    Colorado Math Camp (Denver, CO)
    Colorado Math Camp is for elementary or middle school students who love math, and want to improve their math problem-solving and math-contest abilities. Students can sign up for Math Contest Mini-Camps with beginner and advanced sessions in July. The vision for these camps came from the National MathCounts Competition. In Colorado, these camps provide the opportunity for motivated math students to work with experienced coaches in a fun and engaging setting.
    Dominican University of California, Summer Odyssey (San Rafael, CA)
    Summer Odyssey at Dominican University of California is an innovative program designed specifically for academically gifted and creatively talented students--grades 2-10--from Marin's public and independent schools. Each course is age appropriate and curricula are activity based. Summer Odyssey will challenge the intellect, stretch the imagination, and embolden the talent
    of each child.
    Education Unlimited - Gifted and Talented Camps and Programs
    This organization provides a number of program offerings for gifted and talented students, as well as for highly motivated students. For some of these programs, students must have achieved certain levels of academic accomplishment, in particular, strong GPAs, and may need teacher recommendations as well.
    Girls Garage (Berkeley, CA)
    Girls Garage is a one-of-a-kind design and building camp for girls ages 9-12 that inspires creativity and curiosity through hands-on building, problem-solving, and meaningful making. In both summer and after-school programs, girls will cut plywood with a jigsaw, fuse metal with a welder, and create projects of personal and social relevance. Girls Garage’s instructors are female architects, designers and creative educators.
    Stanford Jazz Immersion Programs (CA)
    Founded in 1972, Stanford Jazz Workshop (SJW) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to jazz education and appreciation. For nearly four decades, SJW has been bringing the best jazz performers and educators together with students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, in two summer programs: the Stanford Jazz Festival and the Stanford Jazz Camp and Jazz Residency.
    Women's Wilderness Institute
    The Women's Wilderness Institute offers wilderness experiences for women and teen girls in the Rocky Mountains and the deserts of the Southwest. Whether you're seeking a rejuvenating week of backpacking, the skills to build your own top-rope anchor, or the determination to make a major change in your life, we hope you'll join us for an unforgettable experience that will increase your wilderness skills, refresh your spirit, and bring you the joy of a wilderness adventure in the company of women.

  • Websites & Other Media: Commercial

    300-in-One Electronic Project Lab
    This mixed media electronic project kit helps kids learn the basics of electricity and electronics. Contains a control panel with LED digital display, photoelectric cell and light emitting diodes.
    Brain Chase
    This five-week online summer learning challenge is disguised as a massive global treasure hunt for students in grades two through eight. The Brain Chase dashboard integrates instructional content developed by Khan Academy and myON. Each summer, a golden mechanical treasure will be buried somewhere on earth – and it will contain the key to a safety deposit box holding a $10,000 college scholarship fund. Pinpoint the treasure’s location first, and you’ll be the one on a plane to dig it up.
    Bright Minds
    This website connects children with tutors in order to receive higher grades and better understand materials.
    Eastern U.S. Music Camp (NY)
    The Eastern U.S. Music Camp is held at Colgate University and offers young people between the ages of 10 and 19 the opportunity to pursue musical studies through individual, class, and group instruction; to perform a wide range of instrumental and choral works in ensemble and concert; and to participate in supervised sports and other informal recreational activities.
    Experiland
    This website and online store has science books for parents and students trying to find ideas for science projects; for teachers looking for classroom ideas; for science enthusiasts who enjoy the delight of experimentation. Enjoy and learn about the amazing world of science with this database of more than 300 fun, tried and tested science projects. Experiland offers hands-on science projects in a variety of science experiment e-book ranges suitable and safe for elementary and middle school students.
    Key Curriculum Press and Geometer’s Sketchpad®
    Key Curriculum Press, now known as Geometer’s Sketchpad®, offers a wide variety of resources for middle and high School math and science including: supplemental materials, puzzles and posters, professional resources, software, and textbooks.
    Learning.com
    Learning.com allows K-8 teachers to integrate technology with their lessons.
    MathHelp.com
    MathHelp.com offers comprehensive tutoring covering fifth grade math to Algebra 2, math test prep courses ranging from the SAT to the COMPASS placement test to the ASVAB military test, as well as complete homeschooling math courses. The company continuously develops new lessons, adapts its lessons to the latest delivery platforms, and expands its offerings. The company now
    Mindset Works
    This computer program, Mindset Works®, can be used in the classroom or at home to help teachers and parents develop the growth mindset in students. The idea is that students with a growth mindset feel more in control of their education and therefore put forth more effort and achieve at higher levels. Twenty years of research have consistently shown that students who have a growth mindset do better in school. Moreover, the research demonstrates that teaching students a growth mindset raises motivation and achievement.
    Word Masters Challenge
    The WordMasters Challenge is a fun and mind-stretching classroom competition for Language Arts students in grades 3 - 12.
    Wordwise Instruction
    This website promotes individual and group classes in composition, critical thinking, creative writing, and literary analysis offered by Amanda Yskamp, who has taught gifted students through such programs as Johns Hopkins' Center for Talented Youth and Northwestern's Gifted Learning Links for many years. These classes are designed to help students of all levels and interests become better readers and writers. She also coaches students through the college application process.

  • Websites & Other Media: For Educators

    Edgenuity
    Edgenuity offers award-winning curriculum that has helped more than one million students succeed. They partner with schools in all 50 states to improve the quality and equity of education. Edgenuity MyPath is a supplemental program that offers data-driven differentiated instruction for math and reading. Edgenuity MyPath meets middle school and high school students at their learning level and gives them exactly what they need to catch up or get ahead.
    Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Accelerated Model Course Pathways
    This resource offers guidance to schools and districts seeking to organize NGSS performance expectations into a compressed time frame. The NGSS Accelerated Model Course Pathways are designed for high-achieving students who want or need to pursue advanced level science courses earlier in middle or high school, and at a more rapid pace. Key components of this resource are three NGSS Accelerated Model Course Maps, which outline examples for how schools and districts might reorganize NGSS performance expectations into fewer courses - without omitting any.
    PhysicsQuest
    PhysicsQuest is a story-based activity that exposes middle school students to the fun and relevance of science. PhysicsQuest aims to teach middle school students physics concepts, but its overarching goal is to give them a positive experience with physics. A free PhysicsQuest kit will be sent to registered 6-9th grade physical science classes, home school groups, science clubs, and after-school programs. The kit includes a user's manual and materials for four physics experiments.

  • Websites & Other Media: For Fun

    Broadcom MASTERS Competition - Society for Science and the Public (SSP)
    The national science, technology, engineering, and math competition for U.S. 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, the Broadcom MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, Technology, and Engineering for Rising Stars), a program of Society for Science & the Public, inspires and encourages the nation's young scientists, engineers and innovators. Students must attend and be nominated by an SSP-Affiliated Science Fair in order to apply.
    DIY.org
    DIY is a safe online community for kids to discover new passions, level up their skills, and meet fearless geeks just like them.
    Kids Talk Radio
    Kids Talk Radio is all about STEM, STEAM and STEAM++ (science, technology, engineering, visual and performing arts, mathematics, computer languages and foreign languages). Kids Talk Radio aims to provide workshops, afterschool and distance programs dedicated to helping students in grades 5 through 12 participate in high-motivational project-based learning. These services are provided at school sites and or through distance learning to local, national and international students and teachers. This site is also the home of "The Occupy Mars Learning Adventures."
    Start with a Book
    To ward off the learning loss that many children experience over the summer, Start with a Book offers parents, caregivers, summer program staff and librarians lots of engaging ideas for getting kids hooked on reading, exploring and learning all summer long — and beyond.
    Student Competitions - American Statistical Association (ASA)
    This website lists several student competitions held by the American Statistical Association (ASA). Aimed at middle and high school students, these competitions are designed to increase understanding of statistical studies and their uses.

  • Websites & Other Media: Informational

    Book Adventure
    This site offers a free reading incentive program encourage kids in grades K-8 to read. With the help of Rex Reader and Bailey Bookmark, kids have more than 4,000 popular and acclaimed titles.
    Book Club For Boys
    This is a website created to introduce fun and engaging books to enthusiastic young readers. There are multiple pages that house books, each with a curriculum that ranges from ages 8-11. Teachers/librarians are welcome to use this curriculum for their classes. Kids can talk online with other book lovers about their book, and create a fun atmosphere for themselves.
    Education Place
    This website is produced by Houghton Mifflin School Division, which publishes a variety of educational materials, including textbooks, resource materials, and technology for K-8 teachers and students. Launched in January 1996, Education Place is the longest running website of any educational publisher. With more than 18,000 pages of engaging content to explore, visitors to award-winning Education Place can delve further into the subjects they most enjoy to find helpful teaching resources, textbook support, educational games, and more.
    Girlstart
    This innovative program encourages young women to develop their skills by creating a fun, all-girl, supportive, and collaborative environment. Girlstart enables young women to explore technology and engineering, and they can also gain a greater appreciation for the achievements of women and, most importantly, begin to realize their potential.
    Kidspace: Science Fair Project Resource Guide
    Internet Public Library has put together a useful resource for those trying to participate in or run a science fair. Science Fair Project guidelines include: Getting Started; Choosing a Topic; Completing the Project; Displaying Your Project.
    Learn: Atmospheric Science Explorers
    LEARN: Atmospheric Science Explorers (LEARN) began in 1991 with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to help fill the critical need of science teacher professional development. NSF funded two versions of LEARN. The fundamental goal of both LEARN programs was to increase middle school science teacher knowledge of and interest in the atmospheric sciences.
    LitPick
    LitPick’s mission is to help preteens and teens develop a lifelong love of reading by empowering young readers to share their opinions in a social community. The organization seeks to change the way students interact with literature and help them become leaders in the growing intersection of education and technology. LitPick Student Book Reviews reaches out and engages students in a social community based on literature where their opinions are valued. Additionally LitPick is a community where educators and parents can find out what preteens, teens, and young adults actually think about books written for these age groups, enabling them to guide their students’ growth as readers.
    Project EXCITE
    Project EXCITE is a collaborative project involving Northwestern University's School of Education and Social Policy through its Center for Talent Development (CTD), Evanston/Skokie School District 65, and Evanston Township High School (ETHS) District 202. Project EXCITE addresses the achievement gap existing between minority and non-minority students in the Evanston schools by providing supplemental educational opportunities for students who are underrepresented in the advanced mathematics and science courses at ETHS. EXCITE serves 130 underrepresented minority students in grades 3-8.
    Project M3
    Project M3, Mentoring Mathematical Minds, was a 5-year collaborative research effort of faculty at the University of Connecticut, Northern Kentucky University, and Boston University and teachers, administrators, and students in 10 schools of varying socioeconomic levels in Connecticut and Kentucky. A team of national experts in the fields of mathematics, mathematics education, and gifted education created a total of 12 curriculum units of advanced mathematics. This website, maintained by the University of Connecticut, provide smathematics education through a series of online learning units geared toward educators, students and parents.
    Storyline Online
    Reading to children has been repeatedly shown to improve their reading, writing and communication skills, logical thinking, concentration and general academic aptitude, as well as inspire a love of reading. The SAG-AFTRA Foundation records well-known actors reading children’s books and makes graphically dynamic videos so that children around the world can be read to with just the click of a Storyline Online video book image.
    The Middle Years Program
    The Middle Years Program, designed by International Baccalaureate® (IB) for students 11 to 16, provides an instructional framework of academic challenges that encourage students to develop links between traditional subjects and the real world, through a comprehensive program of study. The IB Middle Years Programme consists of eight subject groups integrated through five interactive areas: at least two languages (multilingual profile), humanities, sciences, mathematics, arts, physical education and technology. In their final year, students will also undertake an independent ‘personal project’ to demonstrate the development of their skills and understanding.
    The TEAK Fellowship
    The TEAK Fellowship aims to help talented New York City students from low-income families gain admission to and succeed at top high schools and colleges. Students are eligible for admission to TEAK in the fall of their sixth grade year. Along with academic support, TEAK provides leadership training, exposure to the arts and outdoors, mentoring, career experience, and assistance with the high school and college application processes. If accepted, programming begins the summer after 6th grade and continues with intensive after-school and Saturday classes during the 7th grade year and beyond.

  • Websites & Other Media: Learning Tools

    Alice
    Alice is an innovative 3D programming environment that makes it easy to create an animation for telling a story, playing an interactive game, or a video to share on the web. Alice is a teaching tool for introductory computing.
    Euclid Lab
    Euclid Lab offers Camp Euclid, a mathematics research program for high school and middle school students, Euclid Jam, a POLYMATH-inspired math circle "jam" focused on unsolved problems in mathematics, an online tutoring service, and Unsolved:, a blog about solution-defying, unsolved problems in mathematics
    Scratch (MIT)
    This website is designed for those interested in computer programming. Children are given the opportunity to create software and cartoon simulations and share them over the web. Designed for children ages 8 and up, Scratch can be useful for teaching mathematical and computational ideas.
    Student Guide
    StudentGuide.org is a collection of useful resources for students to assist their scholastic goals. This website contains articles on hundreds of student-related topics to help them improve their study habits, writing skills, organizational and analytical skills.
    Thinxygen
    Thinxygen provides gifted young thinkers with a range of learning materials (print books, digital editions and interactive guides) that cover challenging, exciting subjects often not taught at a school level. The materials are designed to foster readers' creative, lateral and critical thinking, encouraging dynamic synthesis of ideas and the creation of links between ideas and fields of study. Thinxygen learning materials are designed to be engaging, exciting and fun to use.