gifted programs in schools (Sarasota: middle schools, live, rated)

[Algenubi]

We do not have "gifted" programs where I live, the kids are just in different level classes, but since you call them "gifted" do they make the other kids who are not in those programs feel like they are not in with the smart kids crowd in school? My son is very bright but not sure where he will feel he fits in, and I wouldnt want to see him get bullied for not being smart enough to be in the gifted program if he doesnt qualify. (referring to Sarasota Middle program)

[jnanner]

from my experience it is not the kids in the gifted program doing the bullying

[SoFLGal]

I would agree with Jnanner. Most of the kids in the gifted programs are more concentrated on getting good grades, volunteering and doing the right thing-than bullying. It's not to say that no kids that are gifted are bullys, I just think it happens less frequently.

I'll give you an example. My oldest daughter (who's now 18) goes to a school where all of the kids are gifted-Pineview. She's an art student an not hugely concerned about how she comes off to other people. Think striped rainbow socks, weird 1920's hat and polka dot shirt from Goodwill(but strangely it kind of looks good). Anyway, she wore a green velvet cape for 6-8th grades. No one said a word to her about it. It was just who she was. She did get voted "most unique" at the end of the year. My point is that many of the gifted kids have their quirks in personality, clothing or other things and I find it not as common for them to make fun of others. Just a personal observation having three gifted kids and being involved in the gifted schools, private school and many public schools.

That being said, if any bullying is going to happen it's my experience it usually happens in the middle schools years. Some middle school kids and just be cruel. I think it has a lot to do with insecurities, finding their way, trying to be accepted by different "groups" and starting to mature.

Since you specifically mentioned SMS, I'll comment on that as well. I have many friends who have children there and my middle schooler knows many kids SMS. For the most part we have been very impressed with what we hear about the school, we like the kids and the parents. I don't have any first hand knowledge, just what I'm getting from parents and kids.

Well that's my 2 cents

[Algenubi]

Thanks! I agree with all that about the kids who dont care what others think. Its true, and too bad that others have to make comments about those who seem different to them!