Gifted and Talented Education Screening and Referral
2017-2018 Frequently Asked Questions
All students tested in the previous school year are screened as possible Second Look students and will have their data reviewed in August. Students who are referred for additional Second Look testing will be tested in September – October. It is important to note that many alternative assessments used with Second Look students may not feel like a “test” to the student. Parents will be notified of eligibility status by late October.
When does First Look screening/testing take place?
All students are screened through the automatic and classroom screening processes from August – October as outlined above. First look students who are referred for testing will be tested in the December through early February time frame. All parents will be notified of eligibility by early May.
How long is the testing process?
Depending on the grade level of your child and the data which needs to be gathered, gifted testing will consist of approximately one hour sessions each day for one to seven days.
What if my child was identified as gifted in another state?
There is no reciprocity between states for gifted education. However, students with documentation of gifted eligibility in another state are referred for testing in APS for the next testing cycle. Prior to testing, students’ current test scores will be reviewed to determine if any can be utilized in determining Georgia eligibility.
May I provide results from private assessments?
Gifted eligibility will be determined based upon the findings of Atlanta Public Schools approved assessments. Private testing or evaluations will not be accepted to establish eligibility for APS gifted services.
Who do I contact about the gifted program at my school?
Each school in APS has a gifted eligibility chairperson and a gifted contact teacher. If you have any questions regarding the gifted program at a specific school, one of these individuals will be able to assist you.
What are the benefits of the gifted program?
Intellectually gifted and exceptionally creative students have unique learning characteristics, interests, personal needs, and capabilities. Gifted and Talented Education addresses these unique characteristics and needs by providing an opportunity for gifted students to interact with their intellectual peers as they participate in classes which extend and enrich the core curriculum.
If my child is determined eligible, how and when would his or her schedule change?
In elementary school, gifted students receive a minimum of five gifted segments each week from a gifted endorsed teacher. Students are served through a resource model, cluster grouping, collaboration, or advanced content. Once determined eligible, students typically begin to receive gifted services.
In middle school, gifted students receive five segments each week through content courses. The specific courses for a student are determined by past classroom performance, nationally normed achievement test scores, and teacher recommendations. Once determined eligible, students typically will begin gifted services at the change of the semester.
In high school, gifted students receive services through Advanced Placement courses, International Baccalaureate courses, Internships, Directed Study, Seminar, and/or Mentorship. Once determined eligible, students will typically begin gifted services at the change of the semester.
For additional information, contact the Office of Gifted and Talented Education (404) 802-7585.
