Why should you choose Whitworth’s programs for teaching talented and gifted students? Just ask our students and faculty!

 “The staff’s mission is consistently demonstrated through its commitment to providing high- quality educational opportunities for each of their students. As a candidate in the Specialty Endorsement for Gifted and Talented Program, I enjoy the flexibility to obtain this certification through a combination of on-campus classes and online courses throughout the year. The instructors at Whitworth create and foster a sense of community among their students and genuinely support the pursuit of lifelong learning.”  Audra, fifth-grade teacher, student in the Specialty Endorsement in Teaching the Gifted Program

“The university has educators who are respected around the state and are highly involved in organizations like WAETAG and Washington Coalition for Gifted Education.  I also like the individual attention that Whitworth offers through its friendly Gifted Education staff! ...My favorite thing about the Gifted Education Program is that class information is relevant and applicable to all students in my class.  The instructors are capable and knowledgeable, and they stay current with gifted education and legislation.  I also love the fact that so much networking can be done with other students in the class, so I can discover practices that are being instituted throughout the state. With both online and campus options, I knew this was the place to be!”   Deborah, Highly Capable Program teacher, student in the Specialty Endorsement in Teaching the Gifted Program

“The class schedules have been so convenient for me as a full-time professional, and the staff is welcoming, inspiring and informative…the program offers the best practices in teaching and methods that are useful to all teachers.”   Natalie, Highly Capable Program teacher; student in Master of Arts in Teaching, Emphasis in Gifted and Talented and Specialty Endorsement in Teaching the Gifted Programs

“This program has provided me with a better understanding of the specific social and emotional needs of gifted learners and has equipped me with current, research-based strategies that I have been able to implement immediately.”  Jeremy, kindergarten teacher, student in the Specialty Endorsement in Teaching the Gifted Program

“Whitworth provides so many different ways to ‘go to school’ that it is hard not to…. A few snapshots of my experience include having online access to the National Gifted Conference, which I would never have seen or known about otherwise. …Another memory was learning what it’s like for a new learner to try something challenging and to face frustration when the results are not what’s expected. I learned this lesson through the art of juggling.  I left that day of class thinking “Wow, did I just try to learn to juggle in grad school?!”  The words I would use to describe Whitworth would be these: flexible, knowledgeable, intentional, and, most of all, powerful. Whether on campus or online I would recommend a Whitworth education to anyone.”   Candice, kindergarten teacher, M.Ed. Elementary and Specialty Endorsement in Teaching the Gifted Program

Why our faculty members choose Whitworth
 “First, I am dedicated to assuring that the quality of education gifted students receive is the best… A primary way to contribute to that goal is by teaching dedicated teachers who also know the importance of providing each student with optimal learning opportunities.”  Gail Hanninen, adjunct faculty member teaching Nature and Needs of the Gifted Learner

“Teaching at Whitworth is extremely gratifying, because I have the opportunity to instruct our future educators.”  Glenda Armstrong, adjunct faculty member teaching Differentiation for Highly Capable Students and Creativity and Analytical Thinking

“I have chosen to teach at Whitworth because of the school’s dedication to ensuring that teacher candidates are trained in differentiating instruction for all learners, including gifted/highly capable students.” Carol Mahoney, adjunct faculty member teaching Developing Curriculum