Abstract
In response to the growing importance of science and gifted children in the Philippines, the Special Science Elementary School Project (SSES Project) was implemented in 2007. This project is intended for gifted children in public elementary schools, and aims to produce scientifically literate students who will opt to be educated in special science high schools. The purpose of this study was to analyze the SSES Project and compare it with the regular elementary school program. Specifically, it sought answers to the following questions: what is the process in identifying children for the project?; what type of science curriculum is offered for the children?; and what are the qualifications required to become an SSES teacher? The results of the analysis revealed that the SSES Project, although a part of the public school system, was different from regular public elementary school in terms of: selection process for students; qualifications of teachers; and science curriculum. Evidently, the SSES Project implements the elements of an effective program for gifted children. However, the study recommends that further research should be done to probe on: standardization of psychological tests and evaluation of the enhanced science curriculum and performance of teachers, children, and schools involved in the project.
