GT Elementary to Middle School

Middle school GT students enrolled in comprehensive middle schools take Innovative Thinkers 1 (6th grade), Innovative Thinkers 2 (7th grade) and Innovative Thinkers 3 (8th grade). These year-long dedicated GT courses create opportunities where students are challenged to think critically, explore, create, develop, and become independent thinkers and leaders. Foundational skills embedded throughout the year include 21st Century Skills, Next Generation Learning, Depth & Complexity; and Social/Emotional Learning. Curriculum strands include: STEAM, Research, Entrepreneurship, and Character Development/Leadership. Most lesson experiences are project-based and hands-on.

In addition, each GT classroom is equipped with Sphero bolts and 3D printers! BOLT is a coding robot that lets kids learn coding through hands-on play and STEAM activities, providing even more ways to express inventive ideas and experience the power of programming. A 3D printer is a machine that creates three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer. 3D printers have a wide range of applications, from rapid prototyping and manufacturing to creating custom parts, medical implants, architectural models, and more. They work by following digital design files that specify the exact dimensions and shape of the object to be created.

Innovative Thinkers courses are taught by campus GT Specialists who also manage the GT referral, screening, and testing process.

Our middle school GT specialists will be visiting their elementary feeder schools, where they will meet with fifth grade students this November and December. During these visits, they will introduce themselves to the soon-to-be middle schoolers and provide a sneak peek into the Innovative Thinkers program. This initiative aims to build a bridge between the elementary and middle school experiences, fostering a sense of community and excitement as our incoming students embark on their journey of advanced learning and creative thinking.

Innovative Thinkers I is a year long class for identified GT 6th graders that replaces the Advisory class at this level. Grades are earned with 50% formative and 50% summative. This class meets everyday with the GT Specialist. The focus of IT 1 is on your role in the global community. Students look at how they fit in the world, especially as new 6th graders on campus. Units of study include project based learning on Designing a Zoo, Shark Tank, Self Exploration Through Art, Rube Goldberg, Interview Podcast, Global Goals PSA and more!

An exciting adventure awaits the GT sixth graders as they will embark on a trip to the renowned San Antonio Zoo. Equipped with clipboards and filled with curiosity, they will meticulously research the zoo's layout and design in preparation for an engaging Project-Based Learning (PBL) challenge. Inspired by their hands-on exploration, these young minds will then unleash their creativity to design their very own imaginative zoo!

Innovative Thinkers 2 is a year long class for identified GT 7th graders that replaces one part of the English Language Arts block. Therefore students attend a 45 minute ELA class and a 45 minute IT2 class daily. Grades are earned with 50% formative and 50% summative. The focus of IT 2 is on one's local community. Students look at how they can affect change on their campus and throughout San Antonio. Units of study include project based learning on Community Art, Stock Market Game, Debate, Group Zine, Entrepreneurship and Space and Artemis Missions.

Get ready for an exhilarating event as Northside GT 7th graders gear up for the Texas Sphero Olympics! In this competition, students will use Sphero Bolts to showcase their robotic prowess in four out of twelve thrilling events, including a Torch Animation Relay, Bobsled, Curling, Ice Hockey, Ski Jumps, Pair Skating, Speed Skating, Slalom, Swimming (in real water!), Sled Dog Racing, Golf and Wrestling! With creativity and technical skill at the forefront, these young innovators redefine the limits of technology and teamwork.

Innovative Thinkers 3 is a year long class for identified GT 8th graders that replaces the MAPS/Communication Applications at this level. Grades are earned with 50% formative and 50% summative. This class meets everyday with the GT Specialist and is also a high school elective credit. It also satisfies the speech credit needed. The focus of IT 3 is on the student's self and how students they can affect change. Units of study include Art in Activism, Public Speaking, Changemakers, Market Days, Mock Trials and Cardboard Boat Races.

A wave of excitement is building as the 8th grade GT students prepare to set sail in the ultimate aquatic challenge. Armed with their creativity and engineering prowess, they are tasked with designing and constructing cardboard boats capable of carrying two students. Their mission: to navigate these vessels down a 25-meter pool course, combining innovation and teamwork to reach the finish line. These budding engineers are poised for a thrilling test of skill and ingenuity in the fast-paced world of boat racing.

In our middle school gifted and talented program, Mindful Mondays are an essential part of our curriculum. We use this dedicated time to educate our students about mindfulness and social-emotional learning (SEL) techniques, providing them with invaluable tools to manage stress, enhance self-awareness, and build strong interpersonal relationships. These sessions empower our GT students to excel academically while also fostering their emotional intelligence and well-being, ensuring a holistic approach to their education.

In our middle school gifted and talented program, Flexi Fridays serve as a unique and educational platform for students to explore and apply their learning in a fun and engaging manner. These enrichment sessions provide opportunities for students to delve into interdisciplinary projects, creative problem-solving challenges, and hands-on activities that encourage critical thinking and innovation. While enjoying the flexibility of Flexi Fridays, our GT students continue to expand their knowledge and skills, fostering a deeper love for learning in an exciting and interactive way.

All Innovative Thinkers classrooms are equipped with Sphero BOLTs. Sphero BOLT is a programmable robot ball that you can drive and code, providing endless opportunities to be creative and have fun while learning. Advanced yet approachable, you can learn programming, complete hands-on activities, and share your creations with the community!

All Innovative Thinkers classrooms are also equipped with a 3D Printer where students can unleash their creativity and problem-solving skills. With this technology, they can bring their innovative ideas to life by designing and producing 3D models, prototypes, and functional objects. This hands-on experience not only fosters critical thinking but also provides a tangible avenue for exploring STEM concepts and nurturing a deeper understanding of engineering and design principles.

Due to the course load at the Magnet Middle Schools, Innovative Thinkers is not offered. Rather, identified GT students will receive GT services through specialized magnet courses and curriculum. These courses and curriculum are designed to foster inquiry and challenge students to think critically, create, and conduct research to support their ideas and outcomes. All magnet courses are taught by teachers who have completed the state required GT training and will provide differentiated instruction to our GT students. For more information regarding middle school magnet schools, visit the NISD Magnet Schools webpage.