Many gifted students receive poor grades because they are unengaged in slower-paced learning, or, they deliberately 'mask' their abilities to fit in socially.

Studies show that average or below-average students don't see students with higher than average learning rates as 'role models.' Students with poor grades are not automatically 'low ability,' either. As one example, people often think that gifted students are role models in non-accelerated classrooms, and therefore should not be asked to participate in accelerated learning programs. The National Association for Gifted Children identified several myths about gifted students and education. Only 2 percent of the overall population in the U.S.

In one case, 44 percent of a group of over 300 GATE students had doctoral degrees. Longitudinal studies of students who've participated in GATE programs in the past found that the majority went on to pursue masters or doctoral degrees. Gifted education leads to better outcomes in higher education, according to the National Association for Gifted Children. Teachers learn strategies that engage accelerated learners and result in continuous learning at a faster pace than the average classroom environment. Teachers and parents alike often notice that children who learn at an accelerated pace can grow bored and disengaged in a classroom that isn't challenging them. Students in Stanford's online program combine online learning with tutors. Stanford University sponsors an online website incorporating advanced learning, primarily for students in grades K-7.

The types of programs offered vary widely, from one or two hour day programs in elementary schools to gifted and talented magnet schools focused on different interests and subjects in urban school districts. In 2011-12, about 3.2 million students participated in gifted and talented education (GATE) programs in the United States.

Definition of gifted