Identification 

Evaluation 

In order to determine which students demonstrate or show potential to perform at very high levels when compared with their same aged peers, a body of quantitative and qualitative evidence is collected for each nominated child.   It is the preponderance of this evidence that determines a child’s need for targeted programming beyond the regular curriculum. Possible data that may be considered in the process include data from mulltiple categories listed below: 

• Aptitude Data:  Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT): full battery or screener, SAT, Other

• Achievement or Performance Data:  NWEA MAP (Measure of Academic Progress), other nationally normed benchmark assessments, progress reports, or expert-assessed work products, performance tasks, or portfolio review.

• Behavior Data: Parent Rating Forms, Teacher Rating Forms, Observations of the nominated child in the regular classroom setting

Selection 

Evidence is reviewed by a committee of professionals. The committee determines eligibility status and recommends programming options matched to learner strengths. In line with the state expectation that no more than 5% of the student population be identified with the exceptionality of giftedness, the committee looks to identify students scoring at the 95th percentile or higher in any given area.  If the learner does not qualify, the student's teacher may be advised to monitor the student's progress and consider reapplying if needed when additional evidence has been collected. Assessment results and committee recommendations are shared with parents and teachers.  If the parent(s)/guardian(s) disagrees with the committee’s decision, he/she may initiate an appeal process.

Learning Contract

At the beginning of services each year, stuents and families are asked to read and sign a learning contract to ensure a shared undesrtanding of expecations and responsiblities for partcipation and active engagement in the RSU 13 ACE Program. If a family/student chooses not to opt into ACE programming for the year by signing, services to support the stduent's areas of strength will be offered again the following year.  Review the 2025-26 ACE Learning Contract

Appeal

Parents of students who do not qualify may appeal and request a review meeting. The request should be made in writing and should state the basis for requested reconsideration.  A review meeting will include the RSU 13 GT Director, the child’s classroom teacher, the ACE teacher/advisor of the level involved, and the parents.  The purpose of the meeting will be for the team to discuss the student's profile, why the recommendation was reached, and clarify any plans for monitoring the student's progress for possible reapplication in the future.  In the absence of a consensus decision, the parent may appeal to the RSU 13 Superintendent of School.  The decision of the RSU 13 Superintendent of Schools will be final in any parent appeal. Parents may also appeal if the student has been asked to exit the program.