Pathways
Talent development is a personalized journey from potential to achievement.
Programs
Enrichment and credit-bearing, accelerated programs designed for students at every age and stage of talent development.
CTD Pathways Approach
CTD’s Vision of Talent Development
No student is born with a set destination. We believe that talents, passions, and goals are discovered through exploration, experience, and mentorship. When a student finds a pathway with CTD, they are guided toward achievement in school and in life.
At the Center for Talent Development, we believe that:
- Talents and passions need to be identified and nurtured.
- Talents can be developed through learning and practice.
- Talent development requires more than content knowledge; it takes supporting the student holistically.
Giftedness is not a state of being. It’s a process--a journey--that involves developing potential into achievement.
Stages of the Talent Development Pathway
Identify Potential and Emerging Talents
How do strengths and interests get identified? Through exploration. Through observation. Through assessment and guidance. At CTD students have a chance to learn, develop, and excel while being nurtured by committed educators. At this stage of the path, the student:
- Explores subjects
- Acquires foundational knowledge
- Meets like-minded peers
- Cultivates joy in learning
Develop Competency
Once talents are identified, our educators work to challenge and support students, moving them along their path and helping them identify goals. We help students create a foundation of knowledge on which they can build their future. We don’t set a goal. We open up possibilities. At this stage of the path, the student:
- Focuses on their talent area
- Accelerates and enriches their learning
- Collaborates with like-minded peers
- Achieves at a high level
Cultivate Expertise
The foundation has been set. The journey is underway. The possibilities that come from developing and cultivating a talent are endless. Here the student applies what they have learned to create a path for college and career. At this stage of the path, the student:
- Benefits from mentoring and apprenticeships
- Takes advanced-level course work
- Networks with peers and professionals
- Participates in authentic fieldwork
- Explores their future careers
"At Center for Talent Development, we believe giftedness is not a trait, like your eye color or fingerprint, but rather a process—a journey—that involves developing potential into achievement." - Paula Olszewski-Kubilius, Former CTD Director
Supporting Talent Means More Than Academics
The path you take in life isn’t built entirely on class work. At CTD, we believe a student is more than their academic achievement or test scores. Building towards success is a combination of academic excellence and emotional development. That’s why we also nourish psychological and social strengths. We help students develop:
- Motivation
- Persistence
- Self-confidence
- Collaboration
- A community of peers and mentors
When the whole person is nurtured, the future is limitless.
Assessments
Understand Your Abilities. Find Your Strengths. Chart Your Own Path.
Enrollment
Get Started on Your Talent Development Journey
Need Help Getting Started?
If you would like to work with a CTD staff member to discuss your child’s strengths, interests, or talent development pathway, consider setting up a consultation.