Gifted but Overlooked – The Problem Facing Underrepresented Scholars

Special Education vs Gifted Education among African American Students

African American students comprise 17% of the U.S. student population, but constitute 41% of students placed in various categories of special education, and only 3% of the gifted and talented.

Gifted english language learners

Three million school children in the U.S. are identified as gifted. That's roughly the top 10 % of the nation's highest achieving students. But Rene Islas, head of the National Association for Gifted Children, says tens of thousands of gifted English language learners are never identified.

Teachers & Gifted Referrals

Many gifted students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds who are more than capable are overlooked for recommendation to Gifted Programs or advanced level work by their teachers.

The Excellence gap

Historically, students from culturally diverse populations have been underrepresented in Gifted Education programs across the United States.

the “invisible gifted”

The under representation of students from minority and low-income backgrounds in gifted education programs continues to be one of the most critical, yet seldom talked about, issues confronting education.

“Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men”

— Proverbs 22:29

The Gift Center Answer to the Equity Gap

We empower underrepresented 9th through12th grade scholars through academic excellence and Christ-like character development—equipping them to lead with purpose, influence, and Kingdom impact. When God opens a door of opportunity, will you be ready?