These students are gifted children of above average abilities who also have special educational needs— ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, etc. They may already have an individualized education plan (IEP). Because their giftedness can mask their special needs and their special needs can hide their giftedness, Sevastopol School District recognizes the importance of identifying and servicing this often under represented group.
The following list should be viewed as characteristics which are typical of many children who are gifted and who also have a disability, rather than characteristics which all such children possess. These twice exceptional children do not form a simple, homogeneous group; they are a highly diverse group of learners.

STRENGTHS                CHALLENGES

Superior vocabulary         Easily frustrated

Highly creative               Stubborn

Resourceful                  Manipulative

Curious                      Opinionated

Imaginative                Argumentative

Questioning                  Lack of interest in or quality of written expression

Problem-solving ability        Highly sensitive to criticism

Sophisticated sense of humor Inconsistent academic performance

Wide range of interests       Lack of organization and study skills

Advanced ideas and opinions   Difficulty with social interactions Special talent or consuming interest