Students in fourth, fifth and sixth grades at Perdido Elementary were recognized recently for their outstanding achievement on last year’s ASPIRE test.

These students all scored in the 95 percent or higher, in at least one area, and are being recognized by the Duke TIP organization.

The purpose of this program is to help meet the academic and social needs of gifted students. This is a nonprofit organization, in which fourth through sixth grade talent search is the entry point for TIP benefits that can motivate gifted students to realize their full potential. The program is open only to fourth, fifth or sixth grade students who achieve a qualifying score.

Those students who qualify are given the opportunity to participate in the fourth through sixth grade talent search, discover and explore their academic talents and interests, gain a deeper understanding of their academic skill and potential, develop their critical and creative thinking skills, and become a part of peer communities that celebrate learning. The students get access to opportunities for appropriate challenge and academic growth, and gain insight into how they learn and develop both academically and socially. In addition, they are celebrated for their efforts and accomplishments.

The more a student participates in Duke TIP, the greater the opportunities to explore and understand their academic talents and cultivate their passion for learning. Participants receive a variety of benefits to nurture their academic talent, including customized publications, online activities and access to challenging educational programs and resources designed especially for gifted students. A major benefit is the opportunity to take EXPLORE, an above-level test designed by ACT for eighth grade students. Taking this optional test provides an invaluable testing experience and can help families assess a child’s academic strengths.