This year I taught three levels of Math.

Two mixed-model TAG

(advanced) classes, one accelerated TAG (year ahead) and two onlevel classes. While I had not thought much about the impact of
acceleration, grouping and advisement of gifted students prior to
beginning the TAG certification process, I can tell you that my
experiences this year really drove home the impact and
importance of all three. I find the Fulton County does a good job of
meeting the needs of our gifted learners.

After teaching a couple of TAG classes last year, I thought I knew

what gifted students were like and what they needed. When I
taught the accelerated class this year, I was blown away. These
are students that went above what I already considered to be
gifted in math. They asked questions far above and beyond my
other students. They retained information and devoured the
content with ease and enthusiasm. It amazed me. I learned that
not only is there a significant difference between TAG and on-level
students, but also a significant difference in TAG advanced versus
accelerated in my subject.

Through Fulton Countys continuous achievement model in Math and

Language Arts, we are equipped to recognize and respond to
individual student needs through acceleration. There is a clear
process in place and students are better served. By grouping TAG

students with like-ability peers, we create for them a learning

environment that is most conducive to their social/emotional and
academic needs. While we do not have TAG advisement, with more
and more teachers becoming TAG certified we are all better able
to identify and adapt to their unique learning styles and socialemotional needs within the classroom.

When I began this process, I often felt as though TAG teachers had
it easy. The past two years have changed my mind significantly.
Without acceleration and enrichment grouping, no students needs
would be adequately met. On-level students may be intimidated by
faster-learning peers and accelerated students may become bored
and disdainful of the learning process. In Fulton County we have
ensured that all student needs are met adequately and fairly.