Growing Together: How the Gifted Academy at Towne Meadows and Highland Junior High Supports Gifted Learners
Tristan Chavez
Gilbert Public Schools offers a variety of gifted education programs designed to meet the needs of students from elementary through high school. Through these programs, GPS provides research-based instruction that addresses cognitive, academic, physical, and kinesthetic needs while also encouraging creativity and critical thinking.
Gifted students learn differently from many of their peers. They often grasp new concepts quickly and explore ideas deeply, but their strengths may not always develop at the same pace across all areas. A gifted student might excel in math while still building reading skills, or show advanced thinking in one area while needing support in another. Some gifted learners also navigate learning differences, creating a unique blend of abilities and needs. Because of this, gifted students thrive when learning is tailored to both challenge and support them in all areas of growth.
Gifted students are identified using a state-approved Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT), which measures verbal, quantitative, and non-verbal reasoning skills. Students who score in the 97th percentile of the CogAT or earn at least two scores in the 95th percentile are eligible for Gifted Services. GPS screens all 2nd graders to ensure students are properly placed.
To best support students, all gifted teachers across the district are highly qualified and gifted-endorsed. Elementary programs include cluster models or dedicated classrooms for 4th-6th-grade students, while the Gifted Academy at Towne Meadows Elementary and Highland Junior High offers an experience designed to provide continuity and focus throughout a student's education. Instruction incorporates acceleration, enrichment, project-based learning, and differentiated strategies to meet the unique needs of gifted learners, while providing effective communication between families and teachers.
At Towne Meadows Elementary, the Gifted Academy provides that tailored experience for 3rd–6th graders. Students in the program are taught by gifted-endorsed teachers who design lessons specifically for advanced learners. Classes are project-based, hands-on, and often aligned with student interests. For instance, students might study physics or math concepts through Minecraft-inspired projects, or create parade balloons connected to the Macy’s Day Parade. Teachers also give students opportunities to share their learning -from presentations and posters to skits - so each student can learn in ways that fit their strengths and style.
Towne Meadows Elementary emphasises community and belonging just as much as academics. Parent-led initiatives such as the Gifted Parent Council host fall and winter meetups, while lunchtime and hands-on activities encourage students to interact with peers outside their classrooms.
"Our parent-led initiatives, thematic lesson designs, and lunchtime activities really help students get to know each other and feel part of the Timberwolves community," said Dr. Kshama Rosales, Principal at Towne Meadows Elementary. "Community isn't just about social interaction, but about creating a supportive learning environment for all students."
Students who complete the Towne Meadows Gifted Academy can continue in the Highland Junior High Gifted Academy for 7th and 8th grade. The program extends the individualized learning experience while keeping students connected to the wider school community. Gifted students remain part of the larger student body for electives, PE, and clubs, while enjoying a dedicated cohort for core subjects with eight gifted-endorsed teachers. Clubs like the Dungeons & Dragons program bring together students across interest areas, creating both enrichment and connection. A gifted coach also helps students transition smoothly from elementary to junior high.
Once in the Gifted Academy, students are encouraged to ask questions and think critically about the material they are studying. In conventional classrooms, instruction typically moves at a uniform pace, while gifted learners move quickly through concepts they understand and have the opportunity to dive deeper into topics that spark their curiosity. Teachers guide students in exploring advanced ideas and applying knowledge in creative ways, fostering both academic growth and confidence. This approach allows students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while remaining engaged and motivated.
The Highland Junior High Gifted Academy builds on this foundation, providing 7th and 8th graders with a differentiated learning experience tailored to their abilities. Students remain part of the larger Highland Junior High community for lunch, PE, and electives activities while benefiting from a small cohort of peers for core subjects. Their eight gifted-endorsed teachers work together to address each student’s strengths, interests, and pace of learning, creating a supportive environment that balances challenge with guidance. Highland Junior High also offers enrichment opportunities such as Socratic seminars, clubs, and hands-on projects, allowing students to explore new interests and connect with like-minded peers.
“At Highland Junior High, we support gifted students in all facets of their growth,” said Dr. Sean Jonaitis, Principal at Highland Junior High. “Our teachers foster creativity, collaboration, and curiosity while keeping students connected to the larger school community. We want every gifted student to feel challenged, supported, and truly at home here.”
The transition from Towne Meadows to Highland Junior High is also made seamless with the support of a dedicated gifted coach who ensures students and families have a point of contact during the promotion to junior high. During this time, students receive guidance on new opportunities, schedules, and programs while remaining engaged with peers from their Towne Meadows cohort. Ultimately, this allows students to enjoy a consistent, six-year Gifted Academy experience that encourages both academic growth and meaningful social connections.
Parents also play an important role in the Gifted Academy community. Through the Gifted Parent Council, families have the opportunity to connect, plan activities, and provide input on programming that supports students’ unique needs. Whether hosting meetups, organizing lunchtime activities, or planning enrichment projects, parents help foster a welcoming environment for all families, including those new to Gilbert Public Schools.
For families interested in learning more about the Gifted program, Towne Meadows Elementary will host an informational night on December 2 at 5:30 p.m. to provide an overview of the program, the enrollment process, and opportunities for students. Applications for the program are already being accepted, and regional transportation is available for students across the district, which also includes siblings of Gifted students.
From hands-on projects and thematic lessons to small cohorts and strong family engagement, the Gifted Academy at Towne Meadows and Highland Junior High offers students a learning environment that is both challenging and supportive. By focusing on the individual needs of gifted learners, these programs provide a pathway for students to grow, explore, and thrive academically and personally.
To learn more about the Gifted Academy at Towne Meadows Elementary, schedule a tour with the school at TowneMeadows.GilbertSchools.net/Tour, or attend the information night on December 2, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.
To learn more about the Gifted Academy at Highland Junior High, schedule a tour with the school at HighlandJunior.GilbertSchools.net/Tour.