Programs & Services

This page explains how gifted services are provided in Scottsdale Unified School District. Learn how services support students’ learning and growth at each grade level.

Quick Answers 

• What are gifted services? 
  • Specialized learning supports for students with advanced learning potential 
• Are services provided at every school? 
  • All schools provide gifted services.  Learn what this looks like at each level on this page. 
• Are gifted services a separate program? 
  • No—services are provided within the school setting 
• Do services look different by age? 
  • Yes, they change as students grow and their needs change 
• Does identification guarantee a specific class? 
  • No, services are planned based on student needs 
• Who helps decide services? 
  • Guided by district expectations, the school’s gifted specialist will work with school staff and families to match services to student needs. 
• Who do I contact with questions? 
  • Gifted & Accelerated Learning Department 

Gifted services are instructional supports designed for students who need greater challenge, depth, or pace than typical grade-level instruction provides.

These services are part of the regular school day and are tailored to meet each student's unique learning needs.

In SUSD, gifted services focus on developing:

• Advanced thinking and problem-solving skills
• Deeper exploration of content
• Strong understanding through increased depth and complexity

Students receive a challenging curriculum through differentiated instruction, enrichment, and opportunities for acceleration. These supports are designed to address both the academic and social-emotional needs of gifted learners, ensuring they are appropriately challenged and engaged every day.

If your child has been identified as gifted or you're exploring options:

• Review gifted identification information.
• Learn about services at your child's school.
• Contact the Gifted & Accelerated Learning Department with questions.