Two county public schools are among the 2025 Maryland recipients of the Excellence in Gifted and Talented Education (EGATE) awards, the Maryland State Department of Education announced this week.
Davidsonville Elementary School was recognized for the third time and Shipley’s Choice Elementary School earned its second designation. In all, 14 schools across Maryland earned EGATE honors.
“We commend the extraordinary efforts of schools across Maryland to foster excellence in gifted and talented education,” State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright said in announcing the awards. “This recognition is a testament to their commitment to meeting the diverse needs of gifted learners and the bright future they are helping to shape for all students.”
Said Davidsonville Elementary School Principal Colleen Harris: “This speaks to the dedication our teachers have to enriching the educational programming and enhancing the school experience for our students.”
Achieving the EGATE designation requires schools to document gifted and talented programs and identify criteria for excellence under four program objectives: student identification, curriculum and instruction, professional development, and program management and evaluation.
“We are thrilled to be recognized for our commitment to excellence in gifted and talented education,” Shipley’s Choice Principal Elizabeth Curley said. “This award speaks to the dedication and passion of our teachers and the achievements of our talented students. Their collaborative efforts have truly elevated our educational experience, and we are proud to celebrate this success together.”
All EGATE schools will be honored Saturday, February 22 during an awards ceremony at Severn Run High School in Severn.
For more information on Gifted and Talented Programs, please visit the MSDE website.