Gifted children are those students between the ages of four and twenty-one whose aptitude or competence in abilities, talents, and potential for accomplishment in one or more domains are so exceptional or developmentally advanced that they require special provisions to meet their educational programming needs. Gifted students include those with disabilities (i.e. twice exceptional) and students with exceptional abilities or potentials from all socio-economic, ethnic, and cultural populations. Gifted students are capable of high performance, exceptional production, or exceptional learning behavior by virtue of any or a combination of these areas of giftedness: general intellectual ability, specific academic aptitude (reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, world languages), creative thinking, leadership abilities, visual arts, performing arts, music, dance, or psychomotor abilities.

L.I.G.H.T.S. stands for Learning & Instruction for Gifted, Highly-capable & Talented Students! 

Schools throughout FFC8 are dedicated to identifying those students who meet the district and state criteria of a “gifted child.” Teachers work collaboratively to develop Advanced Learning Plans (ALP) for all our identified gifted students to ensure gifted children are challenged and experience sustained growth throughout the year. Elementary schools provide differentiation through grouping, advanced learning opportunities, and after-school academic classes, clubs, and contests.  Our middle schools provide a wide range of Pre-AP and advanced classes, a gifted elective course, as well as many enriching after-school opportunities. Although Fountain-Fort Carson High School is known for the multitude of college level courses available to our highly-capable students free of charge, FFCHS students can also enroll in a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) and Pre-AP courses as well.

Our district truly believes that parents are our partners when it comes to meeting the needs of gifted learners. Parents and teachers work together to ensure children are not only challenged, but also valued for their unique abilities. We strive to provide gifted students with a wide range of opportunities to support their academic, social, and emotional development.