Gifted/Talented programs in SW suburbs (Bloomington, Eden Prairie: house, elementary schools, pros and cons)

[ErinGoBraLess]

Hi!
I’m relocating from Texas this summer with my family of 5. My 3 kids are all in elementary school and 2 of them are currently using gifted and talented services here in Texas. Assuming they qualify for them in MN (which I realize is a big assumption; I take nothing for granted), I’d love anyone’s insights on the programs in W. Bloomington vs Eden Prairie vs Edina vs any other SW suburb we should consider. My partner will be working in Edina, but it’s probably out of our price range, so we’ve been focusing our house hunting in W Bloomington and EP.

W Bloomington is an immersion program where all GT kids are bussed to one of two elementary schools where they are in class with only GT kids. If I understand correctly, EP has something like that for the highest qualified kids. But other G/T kids can do weekly classes on their local elementary campus.

There are pros and cons to both types, but if anyone has any direct experience, I’d be all ears. Or if you have experience with elementary schools in those districts, I welcome any feedback.

Thank you!!

[Citykid3785]

I can't speak specifically on the gifted programs, only to say that Edina and Eden prairie are generally considered a cut above the Jefferson HS district of bloomington

[2sd]

I don't have personal experience with these schools but in am familiar with gifted education in Minnesota. The Bloomington district is highly regarded especially their Dimensions elementary program. Overall Edina is a stellar district k-12 with plenty of opportunities and high performers. I haven't heard much about EP schools. Keep in mind that districts don't always line up with city boundaries and you can choose to open enroll into another district. There's plenty of that, especially if you live near a district boundary.

Mcgt is a good resource.