Gilbert Public Schools expanded gifted services for 7th and 8th graders through the GTC (Gifted, Talented and Creative) Program at Highland Junior High School by providing a differentiated learning experience addressing the individual needs of gifted students. The classrooms will offer enrichment experiences and a more rapid learning pace in an environment where curricula matches the gifted child's unique learning style. Their curiosity, creativity, intensities, sensitivities, and advanced learning styles will be embraced and appreciated by their teachers. A classroom of like-minded peers with teachers who understand and enjoy the gifted learner will result in a healthy atmosphere where a child can flourish intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Students will be with other gifted peers for the core subjects of language arts, social studies, math, and science.
The Hurricane Gifted Academy Experience
Comprehensive school culture and oportunities
Award winning music and fine arts program
School wide electives
Wide range of clubs, sports, and extracurricular opportunities
Transportation from students home junior high (if boundaried in GPS)
After school clubs include: Athletics Club, Best Buddies, Chess Club, Code Club, Drama Club, LEAGUE of Extraordinary Writers, National Junior Honor Society,] Student Council, Scrapbook Club, 3D Printing
Athletics include: Flag Football, Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Softball, Cross Country, Wrestling, Baseball, Track and Field, Cheer
Students who are currently in the gifted program at Highland Junior High School will transition to Highland High School. This decision was made due to the academic options and performing arts offerings
Transportation
Regional bus stops are available.
You can easily make friends in GTC because many people share common interests with you and are in most of your classes.
GTC Student
Gifted Academy Eligibility:
Unlike other accelerated, high-achieving, and/or honors opportunities, students must qualify for entrance into the GTC program.
A qualifying score on a state-approved gifted test of 97 or higher in one of the areas: Verbal, Quantitative, and/or Nonverbal
OR
A qualifying score on a state-approved gifted test of 95 or higher in two of the three areas: Verbal, Quantitative, and/or Nonverbal
OR
An IQ score on the state-approved list for identification of gifted students of 128 or above
Gifted Academy Applications
Applications for the 2025-26 school year are OPEN.
Applications are considered in the following order:
Students who are siblings of students who are currently in the Self-contained Gifted Program or GTC Program.
Students residing in the Gilbert Public Schools boundaries or who are currently attending a Gilbert Public School.
Students who reside outside of the Gilbert Public Schools boundaries or who do not currently attend a Gilbert Public School.
Out of District Students Only: Out of district students are welcome to apply if they meet District eligibility (as noted above).
Out of District Students Only – In addition to the application, please submit the following information to the Gifted Department:
A copy of your child’s most recent intellectual assessment results: Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) or other state of Arizona approved assessment or IQ tests administered by a licensed Psychologist/Psychiatrist.
Twice-exceptional students receiving special education or 504 services must attach: Copy of current IEP and most current special education evaluation report or copy of 504 plan.
Applications will be accepted upon completion and submission of all forms.
Cohort Learning
As a collective group, students are supported by a dedicated team of teachers who understand their unique needs and abilities. Students will have the same four core teachers for their two years in the Gifted Academy at HJHS.
I want to thank you so much for the love and energy you put into my son during his time at HJHS. He really enjoyed learning and growing in your classrooms.
GTC Parent
Gifted Academy Highlights:
Gifted Endorsed Teachers
Teachers that understand the unique needs of gifted learners.
Focus on 21st Century Skills
Classroom and team building opportunities that foster communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
Student Centered Learning
Little to no direct instruction with a focus on productive struggle. Students are at the center of their learning with project based and hands on experiences.
Interdisciplinary Opportunities
A team approach to targeted intervention and learning pans for struggling students. Emphasis on executive functioning skills for all students.
Individualized Intervention
A team approach to targeted intervention and learning plans for struggling students. Emphasis on executive functioning skills for all students.
Common Grading Practices
Consistent percentage breakdowns and late work policies within GTC cohort.
