Archival 1994 newspaper photo of the first day at Blacklick Elementary in the Gahanna-Jefferson School District, highlighting the deep community roots in Jefferson Township.

Buckeye Homes: Finding Community and Excellence at Blacklick Elementary

Welcome back to the Buckeye Homes blog, where we explore the neighborhoods and schools that make Central Ohio the best place to call home. Today, we’re diving deep into the heart of the Gahanna-Jefferson Public School District, specifically focusing on the history and incredible special programs at Blacklick Elementary School.

As a parent and a member of the Buckeye Homes family, I know that when you’re looking for a house, you’re really looking for a community that will support your children. For my family, that journey led us to Blacklick, and I want to share why this school is a "hidden gem" for families navigating the world of twice-exceptional (2e) learners.

The Deep Roots of Blacklick and Gahanna

Before we look at the future, it’s important to respect the history of the land our schools sit on. Blacklick Elementary, located on Havens Corners Road, sits in an area rich with history involving the Indigenous people of the Ohio Valley. The name "Blacklick" itself is derived from the Native Americans who observed deer licking salt from the black rocks in the nearby Rocky Fork Creek.

The district serves a diverse footprint, including the City of Gahanna, Jefferson Township, and Mifflin Township. Blacklick Elementary, which opened its doors in August 1994, was the first school built in Jefferson Township since the 1940s. Today, it stands as a testament to the growth and dedication of this community.

The scenic area of Havens Corners in Jefferson Township, Ohio, historic land near Blacklick Creek once inhabited by Indigenous people.

Advocating for the Twice-Exceptional (2e) Student

If you are a parent and something feels "off" in your child’s current educational setting—trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it is wrong. My son is twice-exceptional (2e), meaning he is both autistic and gifted.

Our journey wasn't always easy. Before finding our home at Blacklick, we faced challenges at a specific "gifted school" that the state ultimately determined did not have the staff or resources to properly educate a student with his unique needs. We even had to navigate the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) process to ensure his rights were protected regarding his Individualized Education Program (IEP) and to address retaliation concerns.

Archival newspaper clipping from August 25, 1994, titled 'First-day jitters,' showing 5-year-old Robert Henderson and his mother Jennifer at Blacklick Elementary School in the Gahanna-Jefferson School District.

Why Blacklick Elementary is Different

The shift to Blacklick Elementary was a turning point. Under the leadership of Principal Groves and the dedicated work of Intervention Specialist Koontz, my son finally found an environment where he could thrive.

Blacklick doesn't just "manage" autism; they understand the Autism Unit as a place of empowerment. They recognize that:

  • Self-regulation is key: My son needs space to move freely and scheduled breaks to succeed.

  • Giftedness and Disability Coexist: In GJPS, just under 3% of identified gifted students also have a disability.

  • Collaboration Matters: The district uses Written Education Plans (WEP) to align academic goals with areas of giftedness, ensuring that a student's brilliance isn't lost behind their disability.

A classroom setting representing Tier II gifted services at Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools, where academic goals are aligned to a student's areas of giftedness through a Written Education Plan or WEP.

Gifted Programs at Gahanna-Jefferson

Gahanna-Jefferson offers robust options for gifted learners, including:

  1. GATE Program: Intensive support for reading and math.
  2. Tier II Services: For students in 4th and 5th grade, Tier II provides differentiated and enriched instruction within a regular classroom setting, supported by a gifted specialist.
  3. ACE Classes: Accelerated curriculum options in middle school.

My son’s love for math was ignited by teachers like Mrs. English in the GATE class. It is these "Tier 2" and "Tier 3" supports that make GJPS a leader in special education and gifted services.

A supportive classroom environment at Blacklick Elementary featuring tools for autistic and gifted students to self-regulate, such as physical space to move and sensory-friendly stations.

Looking Forward: From Kindergarten to Graduation

A diagnosis of autism or being "2e" is nothing to be scared of. It is simply a different way of experiencing the world. With the right supports—like those we found at Blacklick—these children can reach incredible heights.

I am so proud to be part of the Gahanna schools' history, and I am filled with joy as I watch my kindergartner and fifth grader grow within this district. I look forward to the day they both walk across the stage as graduates of Gahanna Lincoln High School.

If you’re looking to move into the Gahanna, Blacklick, or Mifflin areas, let Buckeye Homes help you find a house near these incredible schools. Education is the foundation of a home, and here, the foundation is strong.

A celebratory image of the path toward graduation at Gahanna Lincoln High School for students transitioning from Blacklick Elementary.
Back to blog

Leave a comment