The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools gifted program is called Gifted Reach Out or GRO. It serves the identified population of gifted students in grades one through five. This enrichment pullout program offers students the chance to interact with peers of similar ability, while remaining a part of the regular classroom setting.

Once admitted into the program, the students meet with the GRO teacher for small group instruction for Grades 1-5. These groups provide the opportunity for the gifted child to interact with, stimulate and be stimulated by his/her peers while enjoying individual or small group attention. Please note, starting in the 2022-2023 school year, grade 1 GRO students will begin in January to complete a half year of GRO. While grades 2-5 complete a full year of GRO. Additionally, students in grade K will be observed for gifted qualities that include multiple criteria described in our Identification tab. GRO teachers will share findings from these observations with the homeroom teacher and offer support as needed. 

Students meet with the GRO teacher for ninety minutes per week for grades 2-5, while grade 1 has a modified schedule. The interdisciplinary, differentiated curriculum for the students in GRO is intended to be high interest, while at the same time enhancing the present core curriculum. Issues arising from the units are relevant to our times, expose students to new subjects and broaden student interests. Activities are adjusted in pace and depth to meet the needs of the children in each group. 

GRO encourages independent learning, research, and individual product development. Creative problem solving and critical thinking skills are stressed. Students are challenged to become consumers and producers of knowledge.

Progress reports are sent home after each of the core units. Literature from various organizations serving the gifted can be found on the Internet. Parents are encouraged to join Parents of Gifted and Talented, known as PGT. PGT is an organization dedicated to the special needs of children enrolled in GRO.

GRO is a special program dedicated to nurturing and supporting the unique gifts and talents of our highly capable students in the Parsippany-Troy Hills elementary schools.

Curriculum evaluation and revision are ongoing, as the team of GRO teachers make consistent efforts to deliver a quality program. Any questions concerning GRO should be directed to your school’s GRO teacher.