Gifted Cluster Model

Deer Valley Unified School District follows the Schoolwide Gifted Cluster Model in grades K-6 to support accurate student placement. Many schools, including middle and high schools, continue Gifted Cluster Placements at all grade levels. In these schools, the Gifted Cluster Model is an additional service provided, as a best practice for our gifted learners.

In the Schoolwide Gifted Cluster Model, gifted students are grouped into a mixed-ability classroom at each grade level. Relying upon state guidance (ARS 15-779), gifted students are placed in a Gifted Cluster Classroom when they score at the 97th percentile or higher on a state-approved gifted assessment. The Gifted Cluster Teacher either possesses or is actively working to obtain his or her Gifted Endorsement.  As an expert in gifted pedagogy, the Gifted Cluster Teacher is trained in understanding, planning for, and instructing gifted students.  Gifted students benefit from being grouped with their intellectual peers within a differentiated and enriching classroom. They participate in critical thinking, inquiry, and problem solving. Students are empowered to become organized, self-directed, lifelong learners. Gifted Specialists at each campus assist Gifted Cluster Teachers with facilitating, planning and implementing differentiated curriculum. In this model, gifted students receive differentiated curriculum and instruction daily and in all content areas.

Classroom compositions are carefully structured with two main goals: to ensure that there is a balance throughout the grade level, and to reduce the learning range found in any given classroom. This system provides opportunities for teachers to more readily respond to the needs of all their students.​​​