Project Challenge Parent Association - Tips

The following list of tips was presented by Dr. Joseph Piro at the April 2007 PCPA General Meeting. They come from the Florida Gifted Association.

• Start small and think big. There is so much that needs to be done. Set realistic goals and prioritize activities to assist in making a positive differnece in the education of gifted learners
• Work to dispel the many myths about gifted learners
• Remember that gifted students have varying abilities, interests, and needs. What is right for your child may not be in the best interest of another student (that's why school systems need to offer an array of services)
• Learn concensus building
• Invite teachers or a teacher representative to join your group
• Make your meetings meaningful and DO NOT let your meetings become personal horror story telling time. Nothing kills a group faster! Consider a more positive way to let parents share their frustrations with the school system. Move parents toward fact finding and creative problem solving
• Develop and distribute a brochure about your organization. Include brief information on the nature and needs of high ability learners (book lists, myths about gifted/able, something that will be helpful to parents). Place the brochures at pre-schools, private and school psychologists' offices, children's museums, libraries, public and private schools
• Learn to practice "quiet lobbying." Become acquainted with key administrators (cirriculum supervisors, director of finance, supervisor of psychological services, school board lobbyists). Share your information, concerns and ideas with them. Listen to theirs. Much is decided outside of school board meetings and you can effect positive change with this type of non-confrontational approach. Serve on various school district committees
• Avoid getting caught up in school district personnel conflict and inside political battles
• Expand your efforts in advocacy for reform initiatives that impact gifted students but may not be part of the "gifted program": higher academic standards, International Baccalaureate Programs, Advanced Placement classes, flexible pacing, mentorship programs
• Knowledge is power. Learn as much as you can about the nature and needs of gifted students and what the research says about them
• Avoid confrontation and try to be seen as reasonable negotiators. Ask questions and do not back yourself into a corner. Be persistent, however compromise may be your ONLY choice
• Be sensitive to the pressures school district personnel are dealing with. Remember that gifted is just one piece of the educational pie and the financial resources to build that pie are dwindling at the same time student diversity and needs are increasing
• Schools and school districts are unique. Find your niche
• Celebrate your successes!