The Gifted and Talented Program at the Office of Public Instruction, in cooperation with the Regional Service Areas (RSAs), offers free consultation and trainings for educators in meeting the needs of high-ability/high-potential learners.

Level I: Best Practices in Gifted Education
This three-hour training is intended to identify, explore and develop awareness and a basic understanding of the Best Practices in Gifted Education. Materials are provided and the following topics will be addressed:

• Identification Curriculum and Instruction for high-ability/high-potential students
•  Management
• Social/Emotional
• Professional development
• Support services
• Program evaluation

Level II: Implementing Programs and Services (four separate modules)

1. Characteristics that indicate student need— Philosophy and Identification of students (6 hours)
2. Matching services to student need—Curriculum and Instruction for advanced learners (6 hours)
3. Removing barriers to student learning—Management of a continuum of services, including grouping practices, acceleration, RTI and differentiated instruction (6 hours)
4. Response to Intervention: Using the RTI model to meet the needs of advanced learners (3 hours)

Consulting Services
Consulting services are available to small groups (3-4) of schools/districts. If you would be interested in scheduling a training session please contact John Keener, Montana Regional Education Service Area III Coordinator at  john.keener@msubillings.edu (406)-657-1743.