Gifted Services

The East Central Ohio ESC Gifted Services team partners with school districts to identify, support, and challenge students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability or potential. From identification and compliance guidance to direct student programming, our coordinators work alongside district personnel to ensure every gifted learner has a plan that meets their unique needs.

Ohio’s Definition of “Gifted”

Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 3301-51-15

“Gifted” means students who perform or show potential for performing at remarkably high levels of accomplishment when compared to others of their age, experience, or environment and who are identified under division (a), (b), (c), or (d) of section 3324.03 of the Revised Code.”

District Compliance & Support

All Ohio districts must have an adopted gifted plan/policy on file with the Ohio Department of Education as required by OAC 3301-51-15. The current Operating Standards — which mandate gifted identification in grades K–12 — specify how students are to be identified. Districts must also keep verification forms (District Policy and Assessment Brochure) on file and available upon request. Our gifted coordinators are available to complete and/or assist with this documentation.

Professional Development for Gifted Providers

General educators designated as providers of gifted services must complete qualifying professional development in the following competency areas:

Differentiating instruction based on readiness, knowledge, and skill level — including accelerated content, complexity, depth, and creativity
Selecting, adapting, or creating differentiated curricula that are advanced, conceptually challenging, and complex
Providing curriculum extension or replacement, using strategies such as curriculum compacting and alternative assignments
Understanding the social and emotional needs of gifted students and addressing their impact on learning
Recognizing and responding to the needs of underrepresented gifted populations and fostering culturally responsive environments
Using data from multiple sources to measure and monitor the growth of gifted students
Selecting, using, and interpreting formal and informal assessments to inform academic decision-making
Participating in the development of the Written Education Plan (WEP)

Google Classroom Gifted PD

Educators can complete Gifted Professional Development hours through their district’s own Google Classroom, on their own schedule. Districts are invoiced at the end of the academic year based on hours completed per person. A purchase order is required to register.