McKinney Independent School District administrators announced Monday that the district will continue the current gifted-and-talented (GT) service model for the 2025–26 school year following a six‑month evaluation by a district task force.

District staff said the task force — composed of district leaders, administrators and teachers and supported by parent and community feedback gathered via surveys and external committees — examined alternative program models, enrollment trends, student outcomes and program costs. The models reviewed included a full home-campus GT model, the district’s current remain-as-is model (K–2 services at home campuses; grades 3–5 at Walker Elementary), and a districtwide choice academy model.

After presentations and feedback, the task force and district leaders recommended continuing the current remains-as-is model. Staff cited core program strengths: full-day, cohort-based instruction at Walker for grades 3–5; GT-certified teachers; signature experiences such as mock trial and district competitions; and a strong program identity that supports recruitment and retention. Leaders said they plan to focus on three priorities for improvement: instructional alignment between GT and home-campus teachers, clearer communication with families and the community, and expanded professional learning for teachers.

The district emphasized that the decision to maintain the current model was the result of research, stakeholder surveys and on-site reviews. Staff noted parents were surveyed and participating parents had opportunities to give feedback through the district GT alliance and the district GT committee; however, a board member clarified that parents were not on the internal task force itself but had roles in advisory panels and survey participation.

Superintendent Pratt and district GT staff said the choice allows time to strengthen collaboration between GT teachers and home-campus staff and to refine program delivery without a full structural overhaul. The report included demographic data and noted that the GT population includes students in special education, 504, emergent bilingual programs and economically disadvantaged students.

Trustees thanked the task force and district staff for the research and said they supported continued refinement of the program. No board action was required Monday; staff said they would return with progress updates and additional communication plans to ensure clearer information for parents and campuses.