Learning Immersion / Talent Development (LI/TD)

LI/TD is designed to provide gifted and advanced learners with an appropriately challenging learning environment focused on best practices for gifted education. The Learning Immersion (LI) program is designed to nurture academic potential and develop the talents of students in grades K-5. The Talent Development (TD) program serves gifted students in grades 3–5 with rigorous instruction. AIG students in the TD program at a LI/TD choice school have automatic continuation into an IB middle school within their transportation zone. In addition, the program embraces the 4Es: explore, empower, enrich, and engage.

Explore

Students explore their unique interests and strengths through engaging Enrichment Electives and hands-on learning experiences. These exciting opportunities both in and allow students to dive into topics they love while building new skills and confidence.

Empower

LI/TD students thrive in a rigorous learning environment that uses best practices from  gifted education. Instruction is designed to challenge students with higher-level thinking  and creative problem-solving. With consistent support and a focus on excellence,  students are empowered to reach their full potential.

Enrich

This program brings learning to life by blending gifted strategies, innovation, creativity,  and problem-solving into everyday instruction. Students are encouraged to think deeply, ask questions, and collaborate through shared inquiry discussions. Our teachers nurture  young learners intentionally, helping them grow into confident, curious thinkers.

Engage

Collaboration is at the heart of LI/TD. Students work together on meaningful projects  that spark curiosity and build academic, social, and emotional growth. With support  from a dedicated LI/TD Coordinator and AIG Teacher, and teachers trained in gifted education and emotional development, every child is supported in a caring,  connected learning community.

Entry Requirements

• Students can apply through the School Choice Lottery.
• Rising 3rd-5th graders are required to be identified as gifted in order to participate in the School Choice Lottery. 

Special Program Features

• The use of Thinking Maps as a common visual language for learning to inspire critical and creative thinking
• The consistent use of gifted strategies, and shared inquiry
• Teachers receive specialized professional development on best practices in gifted education and are well supported by both a LI/TD Magnet Coordinator and AIG Teacher.

Testing

Students in grades 3-5 who seek participation in the CMS School Choice Lottery for a Learning Immersion/Talent Development ( LI/TD) school must meet the entry requirement of being identified as Academically and/or Intellectually Gifted (AIG). Future-enrolled students with an active CMS student ID may request AIG screening during the established testing window (November 3rd, 2025 - November 21st, 2025). Please reach out to Kenneth Hiroshige, AIG & TD Compliance Specialist, at kenneth1.hiroshige@cms.k12.nc.us to schedule testing.