Determining the Needs of Our Students

Gifted Characteristics

• Parent completed Renzulli Checklist
• Teacher(s) completed Renzulli Checklist

Data Collection

• State testing percentiles in math and reading
• Classroom Summative Assessments in math and reading
• Kaufman Brief Intelligence 2 Testing
• Option of extended testing through school psychologist
• Parent/guardian consent for testing is obtained

Altoona School District uses the format above to determine the needs of our gifted and talented student population. A student is identified as gifted and talented in our district when the following is found through data collection: several gifted and talented characteristics are evident and determined using scales and interviews/observations, exceptional scores on state standardized tests, and a score of 130 or above on the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test-2nd Edition or other cognitive assessment.

In grades K, 1, and 2, nominated students are "monitored" for a potential need of gifted and talented services. Services would include extension activities that provide deeper and different learning for the student. During second grade we begin the formal identification process for our school district. At this time we are confident with our gifted characteristics knowledge and specific academic needs. Most often classroom teachers, that have been monitoring the student, make the nomination to begin this testing process. However, parents may initiate this process at any time throughout the year by contacting the Gifted and Talented Coordinator.

Our gifted and Talented service meets the needs of out gifted and talented students. Compacting the curriculum, pretesting, independent studies, subject are acceleration, and online advanced courses are just a few of the ways we meet student individual needs. We also support our parents with the unique experiences associated with raising a gifted and talented child.