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Gifted and Talented

DCSD is committed to implementing equitable practices to increase access to advanced/gifted learning opportunities. Based on state and national recommendations and requirements, we implement Universal Screening for students in 2nd grade (February) and 5th or 6th grade--a student's final year of elementary school (November).

As part of this process, ALL students in 2nd grade who are not identified for gifted programming will take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) the week of February 5 - 9, 2024.  

  • This assessment indicates the level and pattern of cognitive development of a student in comparison to grade and age mates. 
  • These general reasoning abilities, which start developing at birth and continue through early adulthood, are influenced by experiences gained both in and out of school.  

If your child is already identified for gifted programming, they will not participate in this universal screen testing. Your Gifted Education Facilitator will reach out to you directly with information about this process. 

 

As part of this process, ALL GVA-DC students in 6th grade who did NOT participate in the 5th grade Universal Screening last year and are not identified for gifted programming will take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) the week of November 6 - 10, 2023. 

  • This assessment indicates the level and pattern of cognitive development of a student in comparison to grade and age mates. 
  • These general reasoning abilities, which start developing at birth and continue through early adulthood, are influenced by experiences gained both in and out of school.  

If your child is already identified for gifted programming, they will not participate in this universal screen testing. Your Gifted Education Facilitator will reach out to you directly with information about this process. 

If your child is in K or 1st  grade and you believe he/she needs evaluation for Gifted Identification and Services, you may refer your child for testing by initiating the Gifted Identification Process.  
  • NOTE:  Requesting this assessment automatically initiates the evaluation process for Gifted Identification. 
  • Please request CogAT testing for your child by completing the Referral for Gifted Identification linked HERE
  • Upon receipt of this form, the Gifted Education Facilitator will connect with you to discuss the next steps in the gifted identification process.
  • If your child is in grades 3, 4, or 5 and you believe they need evaluation for Gifted Identification and Services, you may refer your child for testing by initiating the Gifted Identification Process.  

  • NOTE:  Requesting this assessment automatically initiates the evaluation process for Gifted Identification. 

Please request CogAT testing for your child by completing the Referral for Gifted Identification linked HERE or here for the Spanish link:

Upon receipt of this form, the Gifted Education Facilitator will connect with you to discuss the next steps in the gifted identification process.

Questions about the Gifted and Talented Program?

Please email Lonnie McKenzie at [email protected]


 
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