From its foundation in 1997 as part of a district-wide initiative to meet the needs and interests of the students, the Gifted and Talented Academy at Elgin High School is one of five academies offered at the high school level. The Gifted and Talented Academy is dedicated to providing a rigorous, innovative, meaningful academic environment to challenge the intellectual and creative abilities of gifted and talented students. Students will be provided with a broad spectrum of opportunities to extend and enrich the classroom curriculum through guest speakers, theater, summer programming, and field trips during the school year to enliven the classroom experience. Students will be prepared to face challenges and make choices that will meet the complexities of today's world, support a life-long commitment to learning and encourage them to make use of their potential.