Katy ISD evaluates measures collected from multiple sources and is completed in 3 phases:
Phase 1- Parent checklist, classroom observation and standardized ability test
Students with at least two positive indicators "passing scores" in Phase I continue with Phase II screening. If there are not two positive indicators in Phase I, screening does not continue.
Phase 2- Achievement tests
Phase I measures + standardized reading and math achievement tests. Students with at least four positive indicators from Phase I and II continue with Phase III screening. If there are not four positive indicators, screening does not continue.
Phase 3- Intelligence measure
Phase I and II measures + a standardized intelligence test.
Screening Process FLOW CHART
Katy ISD uses a variety of ability and achievement testing measures in the GT screening process. If qualifying test scores from within the last two school years are available, Katy ISD will use those. Qualifying test scores are those at or above the 95th or 96th percentile, depending on the test. All results are mailed home based on our screening timeline.
There is no need to “prep” your child for these tests. All you can do is keep them rested, make sure they have a good breakfast and keep them stress-free.
All placement decisions made are based on the data produced by the student. A Campus Placement Committee composed of at least three members, who have received training in the nature and needs of gifted students, reviews the student data to determine a placement decision.
A child cannot “fail” the GT identification process. Gifted and talented individuals make up a very small percentage of the population (3%), therefore most students tested are not eligible for service. Many of the students tested are high achievers who make good grades and are very successful in school. High achievers are often at the top of their graduating classes and do well in Advanced Placement (AP) and KAP courses without having been in GT classes. The purpose of the screening process is to determine if a student has extreme needs, thus necessitating services through the GT program.
Due to the nature and longevity of the screening process, re-testing is not available, a student may rescreen the following school year when the appropriate grade level window opens.
All academic testing accommodations are acquired from the campus once a screening referral is made by the parent and are abided by the testing proctor to ensure your child is in the appropriate testing environment. No further action is needed on your part. If you completed an ARD during the screening process and your child obtained new academic testing accommodations, please inform ValerieHang@katyisd.org that changes have been made to the student's plan.
All testing data provided to you at the end of the screening process is sent via email. All results are confidential, please do not share or compare your child’s profile with that of your friends’ and neighbors’ children.