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Federal law ensures all students with disabilities the right to a Free, Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). However, current policies governing a student’s eligibility for services may contribute to the underidentification of gifted children with co-existing disabilities—the Twice-Exceptional. The emphasis on below-grade-level (or lower) performance, without regard to ability or potential weaknesses, misses twice-exceptional students. Those who perform at grade level, by using advanced conceptual abilities and hard work to compensate, may still require interventions and accommodations to manage increasing educational demands. Otherwise, college and even high school graduation may be out of reach. This article reviews changing laws and policies, explores case studies of twice-exceptional students missed, and examines the diagnosis of twice-exceptionality through comprehensive assessment. Appropriate best practices for the identification of twice-exceptional learners, maintenance of their civil rights, and provision of FAPE are offered for educators, parents, advocates, and legislators as federal, state, and district laws/policies evolve.

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Many of our brightest, most creative young minds not only go unrecognized, but also are often incorrectly diagnosed. Misdiagnoses can lead parents and teachers to pursue incorrect, and in some cases even damaging measures in response to symptoms displayed the children they are charged with. Educators and parents should be cautious about simply accepting many diagnoses unless the diagnosing professional is knowledgeable about gifted children. It is our intent to educate professionals to reduce the likelihood of misdiagnosis of gifted children and adults.

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