Identification Process
Identification Process
Because no two gifted children are alike it is important to collect information on both the child's performance and potential through a combination of objective (quantifiably measured) and subjective (personally observed) identification instruments in order to identify gifted and talented students.
A systematic, multi-phased process for identifying gifted students who need services beyond the general education program is implemented: 1) Referral Phase; 2) Evaluation Phase; 3) Placement Phase. In the Referral and Evaluation Phases, various identification tools are used to eliminate bias. No one score on any one measure determines placement.
(National Association for Gifted Children)
Referral Periods
To make a referral for evaluation, click the appropriate links below.
Fall - Students New to the District in grades 2-8
September 28, 2026 - October 12, 2026: Referral Period - click for referral form link
October 13, 2026 - December 4, 2026: Evaluation Period
December 14, 2026 - December 18, 2026: Parents notified of evaluation results
Winter - Current students in grades 1-7
January 11, 2027 - January 29, 2027: Referral Period - referral form to be linked
February 1, 2027 - May 21, 2027: Evaluation Period
mid-June, 2027: Parents notified of evaluation results
- Optional: Parent Input Form
- Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
- MENSA and NAGC - Characteristics of Gifted Youth
Identification Process
Identification Process Flowchart New to the District, 2-8
Identification Process Flowchart, 1-7
Students may be referred for gifted identification by teachers and/or parents. A district placement team reviews each student's profile individually to determine whether they qualify for gifted program services.
Criteria for Qualification
In order to qualify for the Idea Program, students will meet criteria on at least three of the assessments listed below. A maximum of two of the three School Ability Index (SAI) scores on the Otis Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) will be considered for criteria. Please note: all students in grades 3 and 5 take the OLSAT as a universal screening tool.
OLSAT Verbal SAI: 135-150
OLSAT Nonverbal SAI: 135-150
OLSAT Total SAI: 135-150
Renzulli Scales for Rating the Behavior Characteristics of Superior Students - 90% or above on any three of the five scales: learning, creativity, motivation, mathematics and communication characteristics
Degrees of Reading Power - 98th percentile or above
Creative Written Expression - 5 or higher on rubric
Torrance Test of Creative Thinking (Figural) - 90th percentile or above