Gifted Education and COVID-19 Guidance

Resources for Educators

General Guidance/ Considerations for Gifted Education Leaders for Fall 2020

Based on all that we know as of today, we are providing guidance on some of the more common questions that have arisen as a result of the in person learning suspension announcement by Governor Polis relating to the spread of the COVID-19 virus this spring and considerations as we look to preparing for the start of the school year in August.  This is a rapidly evolving situation and if needed, we will provide revised guidance/considerations in the coming days or weeks.   It is highly likely, as this is new territory for all of us, for questions or situations to arise that we have not thought of or experienced previously.  As always, should you have a question or concern, feel free to reach out.  We will be continuing to develop guidance as needed to support your work. 

Supports for Gifted and Talented Learners During COVID19

Frequently Asked Questions

Using the ECEA statute and rules as our guide, we are providing these responses to frequently asked questions.

Is an AU required to continue to provide educational services to gifted students?

ECEA requires schools to offer gifted education services for the same number of days school is in session.  If the school continues to provide educational services (i.e. distance learning, etc.) to the general student population during an outbreak, school districts should provide gifted students with access to services. These services may look different than what was in place prior to the 2020-2021 school year to address the variety of learning environments in which students may receive services.

What should we do if a school cannot provide services in accordance with a student’s advanced learning plan (ALP)?

ALPs are considered living documents so ALP goals and programming options may have adjustments made throughout the year as needed.  The student’s ALP team may meet to determine which services can be provided to best meet the student’s needs during this time.  The ALP team may meet by alternate means, including phone and internet platforms, to amend ALP goals or document programming changes as a result of an in person learning suspension. 

As a result of the suspension of in person learning in the spring of 2020, we were not able to use all of our gifted education funds. What should we do?

Gifted Education (3150) grant funds should have  been carried over into the 2020-2021 school year.  All carryover is required to follow the approved application. Gifted education funds (3150) issued to districts for the 2019-2020 fiscal year that are carried over must be spent in the 2020-2021 fiscal year for gifted education.

Information regarding grants and waivers

There are currently no waivers to ECEA rules for gifted education for the 2020-2021 school year. .