The Gifted Learners Experience at LHS
Gifted Service Models at Lithonia High
Cluster Grouping (K-12)
Twelve or fewer gifted students are served in a regular classroom setting with a gifted-endorsed teacher. The curriculum is differentiated in content, process, product, and assessments to meet the unique needs of gifted learners.
Advanced Content
At the high school level, gifted students primarily receive services through Advanced Placement (AP) courses and other advanced content classes taught by gifted-endorsed teachers, providing college-level academic challenges.
College Admissions Advantage
While each university has its own admission requirements, Advanced Placement (AP) courses on a student's high school transcript typically make college applications more competitive.
Scholarship Opportunities
A multitude of higher education scholarships are available to students of various profiles. School counselors can provide specific information on accessing scholarships that fit your child's background.
Current Face to Face AP Course Offerings at Lithonia High School.
AP American Government
AP Psychology
AP World History
AP U.S. History
AP Language and Composition
AP Literature and Composition
AP Macro Economics
AP Calculus AB
AP Statistics
AP Drawing
AP 2-D Art and Design
Class Sizes and Program Structure
Gifted education at Lithonia High School follows the Georgia Department of Education guidelines for service delivery models and class sizes:
12
Cluster Group Maximum
Maximum number of gifted students served in a regular classroom setting through the cluster grouping model.
5
Weekly Segments
Minimum number of instructional segments per week (approximately 50 minutes each) required for gifted services to qualify for state funding.
27
Advanced Content Class
Maximum class size for high school content courses serving gifted students in a Cluster Group Model when taught by a gifted-endorsed teacher.
Differentiated Curriculum for Gifted Students
According to Georgia Department of Education Rule 160-4-2-.38, a Differentiated Curriculum means "courses of study in which the content, teaching strategies, and expectations of student mastery have been adjusted to be appropriate for gifted students."
Advanced Content
Gifted students at Lithonia High School engage with more complex, in-depth subject matter that extends beyond the standard curriculum, challenging them to develop deeper understanding.
Process Modification
Teaching methods emphasize higher-order thinking skills, problem-solving, and creative approaches to learning that match gifted students' accelerated cognitive abilities.
Product Expectations
Assignments and assessments for gifted students require more sophisticated, original outputs that demonstrate advanced mastery and application of concepts.
Additional Resources for Gifted Students
Beyond classroom instruction, Lithonia High School gifted students have access to numerous enrichment opportunities:
Digital Resources
Access to advanced learning platforms through Clever/Launchpad, including GALILEO and MackinVia, which offer eBooks and research materials for all grade levels.
District Competitions
Opportunities to participate in Governor's Honors Program, Technology Fair, National History Day, Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl, Science Fair, and Social Studies Fair.
Specialized Events
Access to Fernbank Science Center Events, Tech for Littles: DeKalb's Byte Sized Brilliance Technology Fair, and other enrichment programs throughout the year.
Mental Health Support for Gifted Students
Lithonia High School recognizes that gifted students may face unique social-emotional challenges. Our comprehensive approach to supporting gifted students' mental health includes:
Wrap Around Services
DeKalb County School District's Division of Wrap Around Services provides various resources for teachers, students, and families on supporting students' mental health, including social-emotional learning modules.
School Counseling
School counselors are trained to address the unique social-emotional needs of gifted students, including perfectionism, sensitivity, and asynchronous development.
Social Work Services
School social workers provide additional support for more complex mental health needs, connecting students and families with appropriate resources.