The program for gifted and talented students in the Austin Independent School District consists of 126 programs in grades K-12 to develop skills and abilities in academic subjects, music, art, problem-solving, and coping with giftedness. The program has been in effect since 1975. The focus of the evaluation in 1981-82 is the identification of program characteristics and unique features from which subsequent changes can be studied. The evaluation will also provide formative data, e.g., which components of the present program, if any, should be modified or deleted; and whether any components should be added. The relevant evaluation questions and objectives, the information sources to provide evaluation data, and the program information needs are described. Curriculum development and achievement are secondary evaluation interests. (CM)