Mission

The mission of the Dickinson ISD Advanced Academics Program is to deliver differentiated instruction that challenges and engages advanced learners. Through specialized programs led by trained educators, students will collaborate in an intellectually stimulating environment that cultivates critical thinking, creativity, and academic excellence.

Vision

Dickinson ISD envisions a learning community where advanced learners are inspired to reach their fullest potential through innovative, rigorous, and creative academic experiences that nurture their unique abilities and talents.

Welcome to Gifted & Talented

Dickinson ISD recognizes that gifted students have special needs and abilities which must be carefully addressed.  Gifted programs will provide identified students with opportunities beyond the regular curriculum to broaden their knowledge, skills, and experiences.  These programs will provide opportunities for students to explore their unique potential and enable them to make positive contributions to society.  Emphasis will be on developing independent, self-directed learners by encouraging and supporting in-depth learning and divergent and creative thinking. 

Program Design

Elementary & Middle School (K–5)
Gifted/Talented (G/T) students in grades K–4 are served through a Cluster Grouping Model (G/TCGM), which places gifted students together in classrooms where teachers provide full-time services that include curriculum compacting, enrichment, and differentiation. Instruction emphasizes critical thinking, research, self-directed learning, and innovative product creation. Teachers are highly trained to meet the unique needs of gifted learners.

In fifth grade, students may apply to join the STEAM Academy, which extends these learning opportunities through a project-based, interdisciplinary approach.

Junior High (6–8)
G/T students continue to be served in cluster groups, often within teams or advanced-level classes. Curriculum remains compacted and differentiated, and teachers have specialized training in gifted education. Students may participate in:

• Advanced/Honors classes in all core subjects

• Texas Performance Standards Project (TPSP)

• STEAM Academy, which includes accelerated math and science, robotics, engineering, collaborative projects, and high school credit courses such as Honors Algebra I and IPC (Integrated Physics & Chemistry)

STEAM Academy admission is application-based and open to all students, not just those identified as G/T.

High School (9–12)
G/T students are served through Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, taught by trained educators. These college-level classes offer rigorous instruction aligned with national AP standards.
Opportunities include:

• College credit via AP Exams

• Dual credit courses

• Concurrent enrollment

• Collegiate High School

• Credit by exam and acceleration pathways

Students enrolled in AP courses are required to take the AP Exam.

For a full list of high school offerings, refer to the DISD Academic Handbook (Grades 9–12).