In this article, we highlight Bronfenbrenner's bioecological approach to explore identity formation and the impact of dynamic interactions between the student and their environment in the development of self-concept, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. We examine the complex interactions between student identity and the systems of support that are meant to help students achieve academic success; looking specifically at how the intersections between race, ethnicity, learning exceptionalities, and socioeconomic standing affect students who are identified as gifted and as emotionally/behaviorally challenged. Our call to rethink the services offered to students in special and gifted education leads to a proposed culturally responsive and enhanced multi-tiered system of supports (CR-MTSS). We believe the CR-MTSS approach can better address the strength of students with or a risk for developing emotional and behavioral challenges, supporting each student's success.