Screening Process

Screening Process

Information derived from any one of the selected screening methods may qualify a child for further consideration. The screening process includes objective and subjective assessment methods.

  1. General Intellectual Ability

a. Objective

  • NWEA test results for reading and math at the 95th percentile or higher (Fall, Spring, and Winter results)

  • CogAT test score at the 95th percentile or higher (given to students in screening pool, grades 3-8)

b. Subjective

  • Gifted and talented screening checklist/questionnaire completed by teacher

  • Student interview: questions based on Scales for Rating the Behavioral Characteristics of Superior Students

  • Teacher recommendation with evidence

  • Parent nomination

  • Student nomination

2. Specific Academic Aptitude

a. Objective

  • NWEA test results for reading and math at the 95th percentile or higher (Fall, Spring, and Winter results)

  • CogAT test score at the 95th percentile or higher (given to students in screening pool, grades 3-8)


b. Subjective

  • Gifted and talented screening checklist/questionnaire completed by teacher

  • Student interview: questions based on Scales for Rating the Behavioral Characteristics of Superior Students

  • Teacher recommendation with evidence

  • Parent nomination

  • Student nomination

2. Artistic ability

  • Gifted and talented screening checklist/questionnaire completed by teacher

  • Student interview: questions based on Scales for Rating the Behavioral Characteristics of Superior Students

  • Teacher recommendation with evidence

  • Parent nomination

  • Student nomination

  • Student products such as auditions, portfolios, writing samples, performance


Students are screened for GT identification:

  • In the spring of grade 3, after NWEA test results are available (beginning the 2022-23 school year).

  • In the fall of grade 4, after NWEA test results are available

  • In the winter, after a fall screening decision appeal is made, and after winter NWEA test results are available.


Screening Criteria:


The GSB GT identification committee follows a set criteria to determine eligibility.

If a student meets the criteria, qualifying them to receive GT programming, parents/guardians will be notified by mail and asked to sign a participation permission form.

If a student does not meet the criteria, qualifying them to receive GT programming, parents/guardians will be notified by mail and screening criteria results will be provided.

This does not mean a student will never again be considered for GT programming! The GT teacher will review NWEA data multiple times a year and ask for teacher feedback on any students who were in a screening pool and did not qualify, to determine if a closer look needs to be taken and reconsideration given.