It is important to note that in HISD, the term Vanguard is used synonymously with Gifted and Talented (G/T). The Gifted and Talented Programs are designed for G/T students who excel in general intellectual ability, in combination with creative/productive thinking and/or leadership ability. Both Vanguard Magnet Programs and Gifted and Talented Neighborhood Programs provide a differentiated curriculum by modifying the depth, complexity, and pacing of the general school program.

GT programs guided by the International Baccalaureate framework extend understanding and application of thinking and leadership skills through extensive ongoing professional development for tailored instruction.  State requirements mandate teachers attend 30 hours of professional development at least once in their career and 6 hours annually.  IB teachers attend IB professional development at the local, state and international level to ensure students are given the highest levels of instruction.

The IB framework supports GT instruction in the following ways:

• Gifted and talented education allows GT students to extend learning beyond the curriculum with project-based learning and higher level learning opportunities.  The IB framework is the highest level of instruction and is rooted in project-based instruction where students make meaningful connections to the world around them at an international level.
• Gifted and talented education requires that students have access to differentiated instruction. The IB framework supports teachers in differentiation between students with different learning abilities.  Our IB teachers are expertly trained to assess the levels of students in the classroom and tailor instruction to challenge their students at all levels.