Steps in Gifted/Talented Education Identification Process

Colorado Springs District #11

District 11 uses a multi-step process for identification and appropriate service options.  Multiple indicators of giftedness with information obtained from a variety of sources are used to determine eligibility for formal identification.

Step 1:  General Screening or Student Search

The purpose is to establish a pool of students who may qualify for services ensuring that no student falls through the cracks.  The screening will begin with a group-administered abilities test (CogAT) for grade 2 in the late winter of 2009.  Parents will be notified of the general nature of the tests that are being administered prior to administration.  Parent permission will not be obtained, though any student may be excused from the group assessment at the parents’ request. 

On-going comprehensive screening will also occur through a process that allows parents, teachers, administrators, counselors and the students themselves to make referrals.  Referral forms are available at the district GT office, at schools sites and on the D-11 website. Once a student is referred, the Gifted Resource Teacher will begin to collect information regarding the student’s academic achievement; cultural, linguistic, socioeconomic background; and any disabling condition(s).   GT students may be assessed individually or in a group using one or more of the following tests:

     *Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT)

     *Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (K-BIT)

     *Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT)

     *Test of Mathematical Abilities for Gifted Students (TOMAGS)

Step 2:  Reviewing Students for Eligibility

The purpose is to review student data and determine which students would benefit from formal identification and services. Data will be recorded on a matrix form, reviewed   at this point, and will include the following:

     *Teacher Rating Scales

     *Parent Rating Scales

     *CSAP scores

     *Ability test scores (CogAT or other)

     *Achievement test scores (MAP or other)

     *Informal assessments; e.g., observations, work products, etc.

Eligibility:  Students scoring 97% or higher on any subtest of the CogAT and/or individual IQ test are automatically identified gifted and talented. A 95-96% score on any of the subtests requires one other piece of supporting evidence in the specific talent area addressed; e.g., a 95% on the verbal portion of the CogAT would require a qualifying score of “advanced” in reading on CSAP, or 95% or higher on the verbal portion of the KBIT.  Scores below 95% are reviewed if there are special circumstances- such as Special Education or ELL.