9:00–11:30 a.m.
Tournament Park, Caltech Campus, Pasadena, CA
The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and advanced youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect like-minded individuals and supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation.
Up to
10%
of students are gifted, yet many remain unidentified, especially in underserved communities.1
Gifted students come from every culture, background, and community. Gifted education programs ensure all high-ability students, regardless of their circumstances, receive the support and challenge they need to thrive.2
Only
8.8%
of children in poverty participate in gifted programs, compared to higher participation rates among their more affluent peers.6
Gifted students from low-income families are
2.5x
less likely to be identified for gifted programs.7
Only
4%
of students in gifted programs come from low-income families, despite making up nearly 50% of all students.8
When given access to advanced programs, high-potential students from underserved groups perform at the same level as their more advantaged peers.9
High-achieving lower-income students often lack access to advanced educational opportunities, leading to underrepresentation in gifted programs.10
With adequate funding, gifted students in need are more likely to stay engaged, excel, and access critical learning opportunities.
51%
of IEA students attend a public school in 2024
Our diverse student population represented
43
states in 2024
64%
of IEA students received financial aid or free programs in 2024
13,000
students served since 1998
“I can truly say that IEA changed the trajectory of my life.”
– IEA Alum
IEA offers personalized programs that support the whole child, helping gifted children grow and live purposeful, meaningful lives in whatever way they choose.
Advanced enrichment courses that encourage in-depth exploration of topics outside of the typical school curriculum. Available in-person and online for students in grades K-8.
One of the only merit-based, need-blind high school scholarships in the United States. Awards highly gifted 7th grade students with a four-year scholarship to a high school program that best fits their individual intellectual and personal needs.
Science mentorship program conducting novel research while building experience with laboratory work, data analysis, and presentation of findings for high school students.
A partnership between the Institute for Educational Advancement and Pasadena Unified School District to deliver high-quality student-centered learning experiences for gifted and talented students in our public schools.
A week-long, residential summer camp for highly gifted youth between the ages of 10 and 15 to explore and grow the intellectual, spiritual, emotional, social, and physical aspects of their lives.
Resources (including Gifted Resource Center, Gifted Support Group, consulting and teacher trainings) provide parents, teachers, and school districts with the tools they need to support gifted students
For questions, volunteer info or sponsorship opportunities, contact Jane Laudeman at jlaudeman@educationaladvancement.org.
Institute for Educational Advancement | 501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization | EIN: 95-4695698 | Terms and Conditions
The Institute for Educational Advancement has established a dedicated Emergency Fund to support families and staff affected by the recent [insert emergency here]. Please consider donating via the link below. We appreciate your support for the IEA Community at this time.
We are deeply heartbroken by the devastating fires impacting so many friends, families, and staff in Southern California. The health and safety of our community remain our top priority.
While our offices are outside of the evacuation zone, staff will be working remotely through Wednesday, January 15 as we continue to monitor the situation. We are staying in touch with staff and families affected by these fires.
We sincerely appreciate your support during this challenging time. If you need to reach us, please email us at IEAGifted@educationaladvancement.org.
Thank you for your understanding and care. We’ll provide additional updates soon.
