Council for Exceptional Children Unveils Revised Initial Practice-Based Professional Preparation Standards for Gifted Educators

Arlington, Va., August 12, 2024 - The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is proud to announce the release of its revised Initial Practice-Based Professional Preparation Standards for Gifted Educators, a revision of the 2013 Initial Teacher Preparation Standards in Gifted and Talented Education. Created in collaboration with CEC’s Special Interest Division, The Association for the Gifted (TAG), and the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), these comprehensive standards are designed to enhance the preparation and ongoing professional development of educators who work with students demonstrating gifts and talents.

The CEC’s revised standards focus on equipping gifted educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to address the unique needs of gifted learners. The standards are anchored in evidence-based practices and reflect the latest research in the field of gifted education. They offer a structured framework for the development of educators who are committed to fostering the cognitive, social, and emotional growth of gifted students, including those from traditionally underserved and underrepresented populations.

"The launch of these revised standards marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to ensure that gifted learners receive the highest quality education," said Brad Duncan, CEC’s Director of Professional Standards and Accreditation. "We are committed to supporting educators in their preparation and professional growth as well as supporting their mission to nurture the potential of every gifted student."

The CEC’s Initial Practice-Based Professional Preparation Standards for Gifted Educators are now available for implementation by educational institutions, school districts, and professional development programs across the nation.

CEC would like to thank the workgroup members for their work and contributions: Susan K. Johnsen and Julia L. Roberts (Co-Chairs), Cheryll Adams, Elissa Brown, Susan Corwith, Alicia Cotabish, Debbie Dailey, Claire Hughes, Jean Lee, Kristie Speirs Neumeister, Bruce Riegel, and Javetta Jones Roberson.

For more information about the standards or to access the full document, please visit https://exceptionalchildren.org/ or contact Brad Duncan (bduncan@exceptionalchildren.org).

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is the largest international professional organization dedicated to high-quality education that is inclusive and equitable for individuals with disabilities and/or gifts and talents. Learn more about CEC at https://exceptionalchildren.org/.