April 25 has been designated as Gifted Education Day in Georgia.  In 1996, Gov. Zell Miller designated the last Friday in April as a special day to honor the many educators and parents who work tirelessly to provide support for Georgia’s gifted children.

Georgia educators are committed to the belief that education is a means by which each individual has the opportunity to reach his or her fullest potential. They believe that all students have a right to educational experiences that challenge their individual development whether it is below, at, or beyond the level of their age peers. In accordance with this philosophy, Georgia schools provide educational programs that recognize and make provisions for the special needs of gifted and talented learners.

The state of Georgia was the first state to pass legislation recognizing the need for gifted education in our public schools. As one of six states where gifted education is mandated and funded for grades K-12, Georgia is considered to be a national leader in gifted education.  

The Effingham County School system currently serves about 975 students in the gifted program.