CAN Alert: AAGT December Advocacy Update

Happy December Greetings!

There have been several new Legislators at the State Capitol recently, due to resignations.  Legislators have moved on to run for other offices, some have moved into new careers and some have found other opportunities that engage their interests and skills.  We will be introducing AAGT to this group and begin the process of educating them about gifted students, gifted education and the need for funding to support a comprehensive K-12 education for our students.

Several members of the AAGT board and members at large attended the NAGC 2021 convention in November, either in person in Denver, or virtually.  There were many sessions regarding advocacy and  pushing new messages about how to identify and engage students traditionally underserved in gifted programs.  Talent development recognizes the “potential” in students and provides opportunities to nurture gifts and talents, even if they do not formally identify as gifted yet.  Many districts and schools are developing identification protocol that includes universal screening for all students at a grade level to make sure underserved students are not falling through the cracks.  Looking for potential casts a wider net of inclusion rather than only providing for students who receive a high score on a test.

As universal screening will be funded and available to all districts and schools in Arizona this year, it is a perfect opportunity to educate Legislators on the value of funding for universal screening and funding for programs and services that include talent development.

It is important that all districts and school apply to participate in the universal screening of all second graders this year. AAGT will continue to update you with the appropriate links and channels to ensure your school/district are able to participate in the Universal Screening!

Make sure your district or school is taking advantage of this opportunity.

Stay tuned for more information regarding new initiatives!  

Thank you for your support,

Donna J. Campbell, M.Ed.
Arizona Association for Gifted and Talented, Advocacy Chair
National Association for Gifted Children, Public Policy and Advocacy Committee Chair