For many parents of gifted children, there comes a point when public school is simply not doing the job. With rising student-to-teacher ratios; emphasis on rote memorization; and standardized testing being the norm, the gifted student can find that he or she is left understimulated, frustrated, and bored. In many of these situations, gifted children are also pushed to the margins of public school socialization, as their differences are viewed as a hindrance to mass education efforts. Gifted children can be viewed by other children as odd, confrontational, or even arrogant. This can result in our gifted child not only experiencing academic stress, but interpersonal stress, as well.
Public school is designed to serve the masses, and the majority of students do not share the same needs, drives, and abilities as the gifted child. While some gifted children may be blessed with the ability to float through this environment with ease, there are many more who will benefit from the flexibility, focus, and challenges that are provided within a private school setting. If you notice that your child is not receiving adequate resources within his or her current educational framework, the following are some aspects to consider when choosing a new, private, institution.
Understand Private School Types
When it comes to established reputation, there are two types of private schools for gifted children which tend to stand out: Montessori and Waldorf. These educational institutions have been designed with the uniqueness of each child in mind, and provide opportunities for academic, social, and creative growth. While the associated labels establish a commonality of philosophy and approach, it is still advised to do your research when it comes to the individual school. Not all schools under such a heading are going to practice fidelity to the model.
Montessori schools were founded in the early 1900’s by a brilliant woman named Dr. Maria Montessori. She had a vision of revolutionizing education in a way that sparked enthusiasm and curiosity, and solicited a child’s natural propensity for learning. The effectiveness of her established curriculum was able to be documented through scientific study, and her innovative approach to education has since spread worldwide. While not specifically created for gifted children, Montessori education is designed to work with the gifted child’s intrinsic desire to learn and explore. Teachers and instructors are viewed as facilitators – rather than directors – of the child’s education, and rote memorization is done away with.
Waldorf schools were similarly developed in the early 20th century, by an artist and scientist named Rudolf Steiner. He believed that we each carry the potential to develop into our best selves, and to help others, through embarking on an individualized approach toward life. Though the central theme is based in spirituality, Waldorf schools are not intended to be affiliated with any, particular, belief system. Student development is fostered through creative and naturalistic approaches to learning.
Unlike Montessori schools, Waldorf education does not place an emphasis on structured, socially conscientious, learning. A list of comparisons between these two types of schools may be helpful when deciding whether one of these approaches might be most beneficial for your child. If neither is suited, other options for private education include local institutions and pure homeschooling.
For the parent who chooses the homeschooling route, there are a myriad of support resources available online, many of which are free or low-cost. For those fortunate enough to live in the vicinity of reputable private school – and have the means of paying tuition – the decision about which program to choose may come more easily. Private schools can fall under the heading of independent, parochial, and proprietary. The funding sources of such schools can determine the amount of exposure to certain beliefs or philosophies that is integrated into the curriculum, so knowing the ascription of the school can guide you in choosing one that is aligned with your family’s personal values. An internet search of local and distance-learning educational programs suited to your child’s individual beliefs, interests, and learning style should prove helpful in identifying your options.
Look for Experience With Gifted Children
As previously mentioned, not all private schools are designed to provide for the needs of gifted children. Some are more centered on fostering creativity, encouraging social conformance, or imparting certain values. While these aspects of education are often very important for development, your gifted child may end up not receiving enough support, freedom, or resources to reach his or her full potential. There are differences between the needs and approaches of a high-achieving child, and a specifically gifted one.
While searching for a private school which is suited for your gifted child, it is helpful to consider the propensity of the school to understand – and work with – the tendencies of such. If the school is familiar with the standards for gifted educational programming, that is a good start. Guidelines recommend that gifted educational programs focus on such aspects as student self-awareness; cognitive and emotional growth; and – perhaps most importantly – identification and fostering of the child’s unique gifts.
Data about the structure of the school can be obtained before the first contact communication is made. State, county, and district websites provide annual reports on the percentages of student population, scores, and achievement levels. These reports are often located on the internet. Similarly, most educational institutions have websites which will explain the philosophy and expertise of the school. Pertinent information about the culture and approach of the school can be gathered from these online presentations.
When interviewing a potential school, don’t be afraid to ask questions. What choices are there in curriculum? How is progress monitored? How does the school know when it is time to move a student’s educational program to the next level? How are students supported during times of emotional or cognitive struggle? Most parents of gifted children are accustomed to being bombarded with questions from their child. This is a good time for the parent to be the one full of questions.
