Networks - Special Populations

Mission

The Special Populations Network will develop initiatives that will increase the recognition of special populations of gifted children and promote equitable services to address their diverse needs.  The term “special populations” refers to gifted children who have additional circumstances or characteristics that can interfere with academic achievement, social/emotional growth, and optimal development of their potential. 

Special populations of gifted children include, but are not limited to, children who are:

• From Cultural/Linguistic/Ethnically diverse backgrounds;
• Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgendered/Questioning (GLBTQ);
• Twice-exceptional (2e) Gifted Children with Disabilities;
• Highly and Profoundly Gifted;
• Experiencing the impact of gender issues;
• From Low Socio-Economic Status (SES) backgrounds;
• Impacted by geographic issues, such as urban and rural settings.

To this end, the Network’s activities include:

• Compiling and disseminating resources;
• Developing a network of resource people;
• Presenting sessions at conferences;
• Serving as advocates;
• Generating articles for various publications;
• Acknowledging exemplary programs successfully serving special populations; and
• Recognizing and encouraging research with special populations.

Awards

The Special Populations Network runs three awards -- Dr. Alexinia Baldwin Gifted AND___ Award, Dr. Marcia L. Gentry Special Populations Early Career Award and Dr. Martin D. Jenkins Scholar Award.

Leadership

C. Matthew Fugate - Chair
Nielson Pereira - Chair Elect
Michelle Frazier Trotman Scott - Past Chair