Is My Child Gifted?

The following charts of gifted characteristics and traits can be found at NAGC's website: https://www.nagc.org/resources-publications/resources/my-child-gifted/common-characteristics-gifted-individuals

Can Parents Be Involved in the Identification Process?

Yes, parent input is very important. In the initial stages of identification, parents may be asked to fill out an inventory of gifted behaviors they observe at home. Parents are also asked to give permission for specific tests to be given. After testing is completed, parents review the results with the gifted and talented teacher.

When Does the Identification Process Begin?

Teachers, school staff, students and parents may refer a student at any time and in any grade level (however, direct services aren't available until 3rd Grade). The Referral Form is one way to initiate the process, however, parents may contact their student's school/teacher to refer as well. In addition, all students are screened for cognitive ability in the spring of 2nd grade with the CogAT assessment. Those who score above a threshold are referred for further cognitive testing.

If my child isn’t identified in 2^nd grade, can he/she be identified in another grade?

Yes, there is no “window” for identifying gifted behaviors. Identification for gifted and talented services is an ongoing process using multiple criteria. No single factor can eliminate a student from consideration. Teachers review assessment results and other data throughout the year to get a complete picture of students’ strengths, needs, and abilities. There are several types of evidence that may be used to identify a student.

My child has a disability. Can he/she be identified as gifted?

Yes, a student can be twice-exceptional – that is, identified as eligible for special services in more than one area. See Twice-Exceptional Students page for more info.

Does MCSD consider areas of giftedness other than academic (e.g., creativity, leadership)?

Yes, all learners are considered regardless of academic achievement. Parents are invited to provide evidence of student strengths and talents in areas like art, music, creativity, and leadership. Teachers also may recognize these strengths and talents and may refer students based on their observations. See Identification page

My child participated in gifted education in another school district. Will he/she continue to be served in MCSD?

If you are coming to MCSD from out of state, your former district should be able to provide official documentation of eligibility and the criteria/testing that were used in the identification process. Information should also include the student’s areas of strength and the nature of the programming services provided to the child in the former district. If this documentation and criteria align with Colorado and MCSD guidelines, it will be included in the child’s Body of Evidence. Keep in mind, additional testing or other assessments to complete a Body of Evidence may be required to meet CDE guidelines.

If your child comes from another Colorado public school district with complete identification, he/she is identified according to state rules and regulations. Your child’s Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) from the former district will be recognized and followed in MCSD, although ALPs often look different from district to district.

What is an ALP?

ALP stands for Advanced Learning Plan, which CDE requires for all identified gifted students. The ALP is a planning guide for making instructional decisions and a tool for monitoring students with outstanding potential. The ALP is a 'living document' and is continually updated and progress-monitored. The ALP is part of your child’s cumulative folder and will follow him/her from grade to grade, school to school. For more information, see the ALP page.

Can parents contribute to the ALP?

Yes. Your child’s gifted and talented teacher (or, at high school, ALP Consultant) will confer with both you and your child and take your thoughts into consideration in the creation of the ALP. You and, usually, your child sign the completed document. You will see your child's ALP at least once a year, and may request a copy at any time by contacting your child's GATE teacher or the Gifted Education Coordinator