Each elementary campus has a GT Specialist who is responsible for the services listed below, while also managing the GT referral, screening, and testing process.
Pullout Services
Gifted students in grades 1-5 attend classes weekly with the campus GT Specialist where they participate in activities that promote creative and independent thinking. These small groups focus on interdisciplinary, process-centered learning opportunities that are embedded in a specially designed curriculum that meets the requirements of the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented Students.
Kindergarten students in NISD are screened for GT testing during the Fall semester. Students who meet screener criteria will continue with formal GT testing in January. Identified Kindergarten students begin attending weekly classes in March with the campus GT Specialist.
Gifted & Talented Video Spotlights
Nearly 3,000 Northside ISD GT students became explorers for a day during “Where in the World is Northside GT?” at the San Antonio Museum of Art. Third, fourth, and fifth graders journeyed through 16 interactive stations, uncovering how ancient civilizations shaped the world we know today. From decoding clues to making creative connections, students used teamwork, curiosity, and critical thinking to bring history to life. This adventure gave GT students from across the district a chance to learn, imagine, and discover together in an unforgettable setting.
NISD Survivor GT
Over 2,600 students from Northside ISD's Gifted and Talented elementary program participated in an outdoor challenge called "Survivor GT" this year. Third, fourth, and fifth graders from across the district collaborated during this event, held at Eisenhower Park, that highlighted the goal of creating an equitable experience for students. The challenge involved students rotating through 17 stations, engaging in activities that test teamwork and critical thinking, including puzzles and a human pathway activity. Similar to the TV show "Survivor," students collected items to build a shelter, aiming to encourage exploration and deepen their connection to the environment.
GT Highlights Villarreal ES
The NISD Gifted and Talented (GT) program at Villarreal ES, guided by Ms. McNabb, GT Specialist, emphasizes support and a growth mindset through teacher collaboration. Ms. McNabb supports her campus in a myriad of ways while students actively engage in critical thinking and creativity, enhancing communication, autonomy, and leadership skills. Parents value GT for growth, while educators stress its engagement and creativity. The NISD GT program shapes learning by pushing students to embrace excellence.
GT Highlights Burke ES
Educators, students, and parents share insights about the NISD Gifted and Talented (GT) program at Burke ES. The GT Specialist, Ms. Sandoval collaborates with teachers to encourage growth mindsets and support students. Ms. Sandoval supports her campus by promoting and sharing strategies that benefit all students, while creating a positive learning environment. Students engage in critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. The program's impact is seen in academic growth, enrichment, and preparing students for the future.
Math and Clustering with GT Students (MaC-GT)
MaC-GT is a program for 1st–5th graders at all NISD elementary campuses that places high-achieving math students and GT students together in the same general education classroom. Teachers of MaC-GT classrooms receive specialized professional development in order to better meet the needs of advanced learners. Based on the work of Dr. Marcia Gentry, this program is a specific, research-based, total-school application of cluster grouping combined with differentiation, focused on meeting the needs of students identified as gifted while also improving teaching, learning, and achievement of all students.
MaC-GT offers students the opportunity to receive a differentiated curriculum that facilitates intellectual stimulation and challenge for much of the day. In addition to increased academic rigor, cluster grouping allows gifted students to make social connections and learn with same-aged peers who may think and learn in similar ways.
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