Welcome back! This month we are discussing clustering. This is critical for you as parents to understand, as clustering is a large component to how our gifted program in HUSD is accomplished. In a gifted clustered classroom, if done correctly, you will have several gifted students in combination with other students who are average on the learning curve. The teacher should be interested in working with gifted children, trained to work with them (or at least willing to become so), and should spend a portion of each day giving work that is appropriately challenging.

There is example after example of research that shows the effectiveness of clustering if done correctly. Things have been moving quickly at the district level to provide a great program for our students. A lot of progress has been made in the last year, and more will come. However, our program is still a work in progress. As things improve, it is good to observe your child’s experience, praise where things are going well, and help where things are not.

As with anything involving your child’s education, if you have a problem, remember to use good diplomacy in trying to help your child. Our gifted specialists are great resources in gaining information and insight into your child’s situation. Principals are receiving instruction into the importance of gifted learning. Our district personnel have also been vigilant in helping our gifted children. We are extremely fortunate to be in such an environment.

Consider doing research of your own to learn about how clustering is accomplished. Sections of Chapter 7 in Re-Forming Gifted Education, by Karen Rogers is a good place to start—or look online. As part of being your child’s best advocate, it is imperative that we understand what is going on in their educations.

As always, good luck to all!

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