The roots of the Center for Talented Youth (CTY) extend back to the work of Johns Hopkins psychologist Julian Stanley, who helped high-achieving middle school students by matching their advanced abilities with appropriate academic challenges. Officially founded in 1979, CTY continues to pursue its mission to “recognize and develop the world’s brightest minds” and its vision to become a global leader in the education of academically advanced students from kindergarten through high school.
The CTY of today holds accreditation through the Middle States Association of College and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. Much of its accredited course work is now conducted online. According to 2012 statistics, the CTY served over 9,450 students through its summer programs and over 13,000 students throughout its courses online programs.
These online distance-learning programs allow students opportunities to take advanced courses without having to travel or miss classes at their local school. Online CTY courses typically combine traditional classroom elements, such as texts and student guides, with modern features such as digital interactivity and access to a range of multimedia resources.