Gifted and Talented Quarterly
Bastrop ISD December 2023
District Elementary GT Showcase - December 14, 2023
GT Progress Reports
GT Progress Reports are distributed at the end of each semester. Please take time to review, sign, and return to your GT Teacher.
January Dates
January 8-26 GT Screening of Potential Students
January 15 - Martin Luther King Holiday
January 29 - GT Pull Out classes resume
Each year, new students are referred for testing in our GT program. We will use the first three weeks of January to screen these students. GT classes will resume the week of January 29th.
Need ideas for family fun over the holiday break?
Gifted Kid Burnout What is it and What Can We Do About It?
When we think about gifted kids, we often imagine these super bright minds all set for success. But here's the thing - there's a secret struggle they often go through, and it's called burnout. Even though they're acing their schoolwork, they can get so overwhelmed by the pressure and super high expectations that it takes a toll on them, mentally and physically. So, this discussion is about how these smart kids can end up feeling totally burnt out, what causes it, and some ideas to help them bounce back.
Gifted kid burnout is when these smart kids feel emotionally exhausted, detached, and feel like they are not getting anything accomplished. It could happen when they're juggling school, hobbies, and friendships, and it all gets too much to handle. Gifted children often grapple with tremendous pressure to constantly excel, and these expectations, both self-imposed and external, can become overwhelming.
It is important to notice when our gifted kids are experiencing a burnout. Some signs of burnout are sliding grades, lack of interest or motivation, and other signs including physical issues such as being too tired or trouble sleeping. If your child or someone you know is dealing with burnout, the guidelines below could be helpful:
Notice the Signs: It is important to pay attention to how our gifted kids feel. If they're always tired, don't enjoy things they used to, do worse in school, or have mood swings, these might be signs of burnout. Recognizing these signs is the first step to dealing with burnout.
Be Realistic: We need to actively communicate to our gifted kids that it's okay for them to make mistakes and not be perfect at everything. They should set goals that they can actually achieve and not put too much pressure on themselves.
Strategies to Manage Time: Gifted kids can be advised on how to manage their time. Help them list their tasks in the order of priority and cut down the unnecessary load. Take help of task lists, scheduling tools, and encourage them to keep enough time to relax and recharge.
Be Mindful: Gifted kids can try relaxation methods like deep breathing or meditation to help with stress and stay focused.
Get Help: If signs of burnout persist or worsen, consider seeking professional support from psychologists or counselors experienced in working with gifted children.
Burnout in gifted kids is a reminder that education should be about more than just good grades. It is necessary to understand the challenges they're facing, emotionally, socially, and academically. They need our support to thrive in a balanced, nurturing environment. By helping them cope with the unique pressures they're under, we can make sure these brilliant young minds reach their full potential without burning out.
About Us
Email: cpinkston@bisdtx.org
Website: https://www.bisdtx.org/GT
Location: 906 Farm Street, Bastrop, TX, USA
Phone: 512-772-7100