An Indication of the Status of Education for Gifted Elementary Children: State of Iowa

This study attempted to determine which of the 449 public school districts in the State of Iowa have programs for gifted elementary children, or are planning programs, and what factors in planning/implementing such programs seem of most importance at this time. Conducted in the Fall of 1977, 351 districts responded, of which 36 had an operative program and 60 were planning programs.

The major conclusions to be drawn from the study are: (1) there is interest in the area, but most districts feel the need for assistance, (2) major problem areas in program building include the identification of gifted children, the definition of giftedness, and evaluation procedures, (3) there is a need to better prepare teachers to work with gifted children, and (4) the present program formats vary widely to fit local needs.

Recommendations include: (1) careful needs assessment by districts planning programs, (2) more specific aid to be offered by DPI, AEA and University personnel, and (3) more adequate financial support for such programs.