Unforgetting Rural Talent: A Convergent Mixed Methods Study on Equity and Gifted Identification in Underrepresented Communities

• In Event: Navigating Challenges, Cultivating Strengths: Rural Educational Leadership for Justice and Inclusion

Abstract

This convergent mixed methods study explores how rural educational leaders in Colorado used culturally responsive and place-based strategies to make gifted identification more equitable for historically underrepresented students. Over five years, the study collected and integrated annual interview and survey data from school and district leaders. Findings show that leaders expanded definitions of giftedness to include bilingualism, caregiving, and community leadership; improved culturally responsive practices; fostered collaborative decision-making; and shifted from compliance to equity-focused leadership. Grounded in Culturally Responsive School Leadership (CRSL) and Place-Based Education (PBE), this research highlights systemic changes and offers a roadmap for transforming gifted identification in rural schools to recognize diverse student strengths.

Authors

• Hosna khorsandi, University of Denver

• Kristina Astrid Hesbol, University of Denver

• Norma L. Hafenstein, University of Denver

• Lindsey Reinert, University of Denver