Screening

All CFCI K-8 students participate in universal screening three times a year at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year, in both reading and math. 

• In Reading, K-3 students are screened utilizing the state mClass DIBELs assessments and grade 4-8 students are screened utilizing the NWEA Measurement of Academic Progress (MAP) Growth Reading assessment by grade band.

• In Math, K-2 students are screened utilizing AimswebPlus math assessments and grades 3-8 students are screened utilizing the MAP Growth Math assessment by grade band.

Students in grades 3-8 are also universally assessed with the North Carolina End-of-Grade (EOG) tests in reading and math at the end of each school year. 

Students in grades 5 and 8 are also assessed with the NC EOG test in Science.

All CFCI 2nd grade students are universally screened for aptitude utilizing the Cognitive Abilities Test in the spring. (Any 2nd grade student that has already taken the CogAT within the previous year of screening or has already been identified as gifted will not be required to participate in this screening.)

This broad assessment helps capture a student’s strengths across various domains; by assessing reasoning abilities rather than just content knowledge, the CogAT provides a more equitable measure for students from diverse backgrounds and learning experiences. 

Once all 2nd graders are assessed, a widespread referral process begins for any students that are not identified but have met, or are close to, the stated criteria for identification. The CFCI Extension Team thoroughly reviews each student's learner profile for decision-making.

Students not in grade 2, may also be assessed with the CogAT if additional information is need for decision-making.