Duke University TIP Program

The Talent Search, is now beginning its twenty-sixth year and is the largest program of its kind in the nation, representing participation from 6,061 junior high and middle schools in the Duke TIP 16-state region. Over 1.5 million students have completed the Talent Search since its inception in 1980. The Talent Search identifies academically talented 7th graders based on standardized test scores achieved while attending elementary or middle school. Candidates are identified and invited to complete either the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT Assessment college entrance examination. Duke TIP then provides the participants with comparative information concerning their academic abilities and resources for unique educational opportunities.

This is the seventh year for the TIP Program at Bolivar Middle School. We have had over 100 students compete in the program. Each year a number of BMS students have been recognized at Vanderbilt University for their scores on the ACT test.

The goal of the TIP program is to assist young people with excellent mathematical or verbal aptitude. Students are provided with information about their abilities and introduced to a network of services and programs. Students are encouraged to enroll for several reasons:

1. To pursue an above-level testing experience, which will provide them with more information about their academic abilities; this information can help teachers, parents, and students plan effectively for the coming high school years;

2. To learn more about their academic abilities and be able to compare the results with other academically able youth;

3. To learn more about educational opportunities and options for the future;

4. To receive recognition of their outstanding achievements.

There are several benefits from participating in the TIP Program: They include the following: testing experience, Educational Resource Handbook, Insights newsletter, Certificate of Merit, and the results summary, which may lead to them being honored at Vanderbilt University or also at Duke University during a summer scholar program.