APS has had programming for gifted students since the late 1950s. When special education was established in New Mexico in 1972, the gifted population was included as an “exceptionality.” New Mexico’s gifted students enjoy the same type of funding, programs, and protections—including due process rights—as other exceptional students.

 

AAGTS was founded in 1975 through the efforts of parents, concerned teachers, and university professors. The group joined in a class action lawsuit with other parents of exceptional children to provide services to all children identified with special educational needs.

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AAGTS plays a strong advocacy role in connection with public school programs and services for gifted children, serves as an information resource for parents and teachers at public and private schools, and provides support and networking opportunities for all those interested in maximizing the academic, social, and emotional development of the gifted.