Gifted & Talented

Gifted-identified students have access to gifted services based on grade-level and area(s) of identification. Service models vary from pull-out/push-in with a gifted specialist, to self-contained classrooms (at Columbus Gifted Academy), to the cluster-grouping of high-ability students in classrooms throughout the district.

Columbus City Schools students may participate in the department's academic competitions and tournaments, including debate, chess, math showcases, and national math challenges throughout the school year.

The Gifted & Talented department facilitates the largest talent development program in Ohio for students in grades K-2. It is the Primary Education Thinking Skills Program (PETS) offered in 40 of our elementary schools.

Columbus City Schools is home to the only gifted academy in Ohio that is embedded in a K-12 public school district. The Columbus Gifted Academy (CGA) serves students from 60+ schools in the district (grades 3-8).

What's New for Students & Families

NOW OPEN - Online Referral Form for Gifted Identification

The online referral form for gifted identification testing is now open. Please click here to refer a student.

To refer a student for Early Entrance to Kindergarten or first grade for the start of the 2026-2027 school year, please click here for the online form.

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Gifted Identification & AssessmentsGifted & Talented ServicesResources

Helpful Links:

• Ohio Association for Gifted Children
• Ohio Department of Education Gifted Information
• National Association for Gifted Children