All students in grades K-5 are screened annually for the SAGE program. Students who meet initial screening criteria are evaluated, based on a combination of achievement test scores, aptitude test scores and teacher ratings. Students who do not qualify for the program, but have high screening performance, may be considered for enrichment on a space-available basis. Students new to the district are screened throughout the year and must meet GISD requirements for permanent placement. Each elementary school has a designated teacher or teachers who serve identified gifted and talented students at least one day per week.
All elementary campuses follow a common curriculum.
GISD has attempted to increase the representation of minorities in the gifted and talented education program. Based upon research that demonstrates that lower socioeconomic students do not have as advanced language skills as other students, GISD increased the emphasis on the non-verbal section of the CogAt to diminish the impact of lower language skills. The lead teacher in the program and the director of Planning and Evaluation also participate in the Southeast Gifted and Talented Cooperative, which includes school districts in southeast Harris County, Galveston County and Brazoria County. Each month, the group meets to exchange ideas, hear speakers and discuss issues with TEA representatives, such as identifying and qualifying minority students. GISD has an enrichment program for elementary students who are close to qualifying for the gifted and talented education program but do not quite qualify.