Intellectually gifted and academically talented students are those whose intellectual abilities and potential for achievement are so outstanding that they need special
attention to meet their educational needs. The ENCORE Program is designed to assist these students by providing a curriculum that challenges them and encourages
them to be responsible, resourceful and productive throughout their lives.

The ENCORE Program serves children age three through grade six. ENCORE classes meet one-half day each week in locals schools (grades K-2) or in an ENCORE center (grades 3-6). Since ENCORE is an optional program in Metro Schools, parents provide transportation to ENCORE classes when necessary.

Characteristics of an Intellectually Gifted Child

     displays a great curiosity about objects, situations or events
     wants to know "how" and "why"
     has an exceptional memory
     shows a keen sense of observation about human interaction
     displays a sensitivity to the feelings of others
     observes details
     shows a keen sense of humor
     displays an early tendency to do things alone

When you recognize some these traits in your child or another child you know, contact the child's school and inquire about having him or her assessed for advanced
academic talent. Parents, guardians, pediatricians, child care professionals, certified school personnel and students themselves may make referrals for assessment for
ENCORE. Students may be referred to the local school support team or directly to the ENCORE office for assessment consideration.

Eligibility is determined based on demonstration of advanced classroom performance, superior results on a national-normed achievement test, and evidence of higher level thinking as measured by assessment of abstract reasoning and logical thinking.