Testing

Understanding Gifted Testing

In recent years, Denver Public Schools (DPS) has noticed more students taking yearly tests to qualify for gifted programs. However, many—about 70%—do not qualify each time they re-test. This frequent testing can be tough on students and families because cognitive tests often show similar results each year.  

DPS GT recommends not nominating students every year for cognitive testing. Cognitive test scores have minimal change over time and are not assessments that can be practiced or studied for to impact scores. Ideally, students should only be cognitively tested once every three years. 

Why Less Testing is Recommended

• Mental Wellbeing: Testing every year can be stressful. Imagine being told each year that you don’t qualify for gifted programs.

• Cognitive Scores: Unlike tests for school subjects, which can improve with practice, cognitive tests often show similar scores over time.

What Parents Should Know

• Testing Guidelines: DPS Gifted and Talented recommends cognitive testing a student for gifted programs every three years, not yearly.

• Other Ways to Qualify: There are many ways for students to qualify for gifted programs besides cognitive tests. In fact, there are 35 different ways to qualify, with 24 not needing a cognitive test.

Testing Rules & Exemptions

• Students can only take ONE cognitive test per year. However, it is recommended that students take a cognitive assessment no more than once every three years.

• In DPS, first and fifth graders will be Universally Screened in the Fall.

• Students with Magnet Eligible (ME) or Highly Gifted (HGT) labels will not take another cognitive test, as they already have a qualifying score.

• GT Identified or Talent Pool students can test again to see if they now qualify for magnet status or HGT status. 

• Children must be at least 4 years old. For younger kids, see the Early Childhood or Early Access pages. For more information, see the Early Access page.

How do I sign up for cognitive testing? (nomination-based testing)

You can nominate your child for testing by utilizing these links:

• Nominate your child for magnet testing (Applicable for students ECE-12)

• Haga clic aquí para nominar a su hijo para la prueba de enfoque especial (Magnet) para Estudiantes Altamente Dotados

Note: In-district students in 1st and 5th grade will be assessed as part of our Fall Universal Screening; a nomination form is not necessary.

Cognitive Testing Scores from Outside of DPS

If your child took a cognitive test outside of Denver Public Schools, the scores may be utilized towards a complete identification, pending approval of the Data Committee. If you have a cognitive assessment, such as a WISC, WPPSI, DAS, Stanford-Binet, or other cognitive testing, you would like reviewed, please send the score report to Kelsey (kelsey_muellner@dpsk12.net).