By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–Four gifted Helena Middle School seventh graders recently placed among the top percentile in the Duke University Talent Identification Program.

Four Helena students and 101 middle school students across Shelby County participated in the program.

Seventh graders involved in the talent search take above grade level tests such as the ACT or SAT to help educators and families gain greater insight into their academic abilities according to a statement about the program.

Anna Miller, ELA and gifted teacher at Helena Middle School, was in charge of the Helena students and was proud of their performance.

Out of 101 Shelby County Schools students, 43 students will receive state recognition and seven students qualified for grand recognition.

The Duke University Talent Identification Program is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving academically gifted and talented youth according to the program. “As a world leader in gifted and talented education, Duke TIP works with students, their families and educators to identify, recognize, challenge, engage, and help students reach their highest potential.”

The four Helena seventh graders who participated in the program were Hannah Cost, Abigail Ford, Christian Van Zant and Connor Wolf.