What Is GEAR? The Gifted Education Association of Reading and Berks County is a volunteer, non-profit organization whose purpose is to focus attention on gifted students and their right to and need for an appropriate education. GEAR is also a resource of information and consultation to parents, teachers, and others concerned about gifted children. Our concerns include social and emotional issues as well as education for students of all ages.
GEAR began in 1980 as an advocacy group, but now provides direct service to meet the needs of local gifted students. There are an estimated 3000 gifted students in Berks County. Our newsletter In High GEAR is published quarterly. All members are invited to use our library, which includes books, periodicals, audio tapes and video tapes. Over 300 information sheets are available at a nominal cost. A complete list is included in the new member packet.
The first GEAR-ing Toward Gifted Conference was held in 1981. The annual spring conference features concurrent sessions for parents, teachers, administrators, and students. There will not be a conference in 2000 due to the lack of volunteers to work on the committee. Your help could be the key to a 2001 conference.
Workshops on individual topics are held throughout the year. Ideas for other activities are always welcome. One of GEAR's greatest strengths is its responsiveness to the needs of its members. 1985 saw the first summer programs offered by GEAR. Past programs have included nature workshops, Summer Theater Workshops, a seminar on Researching and Writing a Report, Write Your Own Music, and An Introduction To Choral Singing. What suggestions do you have for next summer? Write to the above address or e-mail us at: Sharegear@aol.com
GEAR is a rallying point for parents when problems arise. A parent workshop can even be scheduled in your school district. We need your support now so we can be here when you need us.
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