EAGLE RIDGE ELEMENTARY

GIFTED EDUCATION

November CogAT Testing ~ Grades 5 and 6

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).

Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, we will be testing only 5th graders in Douglas County in November. In preparation for this, we will be testing all 5th & 6th graders this November so as to not miss any students in the transition process.

5th & 6th Grade Universal Screen

As part of this process, ALL students in 5th & 6th grade not identified for gifted programming will take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) the week of November 3rd (6th grade) and November 10th (5th grade) 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.

In alignment with DCSD’s Strategic Plan, starting in the 2026-2027 school year, we will be testing only 5th graders in Douglas County in November. In preparation for this, we will be testing all 5th & 6th graders this November so as to not miss any students in the transition process.

Gifted Identification Referral Testing

If your child is in grades 3 and 4, 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 process to evaluate 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 next steps in the gifted identification process.

Welcome to Eagle Ridge Elementary's Gifted Education site. DCSD and Eagle Ridge Elementary strive to seek out, surface, and nurture the potential in each student. We are committed to partnering with families and our community to recognize and support high potential, advanced, gifted and talented learners who require differentiated programming to meet their educational needs and prepare them for their chosen endeavors.

In accordance, Eagle Ridge Elementary focuses on the following:

Identifying, supporting, and developing talent and potential
Implementing and monitoring Advanced Learning Plans (ALPs) to nurture students' agency, curiosity, and confidence
Providing appropriate learning opportunities based on students' abilities, motivation, and creativity
Staff support and development with regards to methods and strategies of effective gifted and advanced education

You can read more about Michele Burnett, Eagle Ridge's Gifted Education Facilitator, HERE. Please contact Mrs. Burnett through the email listed below with any questions.

Welcome to Eagle Ridge Elementary's Gifted Education site. DCSD and Eagle Ridge Elementary strive to seek out, surface, and nurture the potential in each student. We are committed to partnering with families and our community to recognize and support high potential, advanced, gifted and talented learners who require differentiated programming to meet their educational needs and prepare them for their chosen endeavors.

In accordance, Eagle Ridge Elementary focuses on the following:

Identifying, supporting, and developing talent and potential
Implementing and monitoring Advanced Learning Plans (ALPs) to nurture students' agency, curiosity, and confidence
Providing appropriate learning opportunities based on students' abilities, motivation, and creativity
Staff support and development with regards to methods and strategies of effective gifted and advanced education

You can read more about Michele Burnett, Eagle Ridge's Gifted Education Facilitator, HERE. Please contact Mrs. Burnett through the email listed below with any questions.

Gifted Children's Bill of Rights:

You have a right to

know about your giftedness.
learn something new everyday.
be passionate about your talent area without apologies.
have an identity beyond your talent area.
feel good about your accomplishments.
make mistakes.
seek guidance in the development of your talent.
have multiple peer groups and a variety of friends.
choose which of your talent areas you wish to pursue.
not to be gifted at everything.