G/T Content Class Qualification Procedures
Testing and Eligibility
Testing for possible placement in middle school Gifted and Talented classes occurs in fifth grade. Students who are new to Howard County will be tested, if requested during the registration process. Students who have never been tested for middle school G/T placement may be tested by parent/guardian request. Test scores may automatically qualify a student for one or more G/T content classes.
Placement Review Procedures
Students who do not qualify for G/T placement through testing may be considered through the placement review process. Staff members and parents may request a placement review. Students who show evidence of superior work and class participation - over and beyond what is expected of grade level students - may qualify for a placement change. Students who demonstrate their use of outstanding abstract reasoning skills and their ability to develop well constructed responses in written assignments, projects, and discussion may be candidates for a G/T placement.
The placement review committee will identify students who demonstrate:
• Outstanding performance in an academic area
• Interest, knowledge and curiosity in the requested area
• Completion of high quality work that shows creativity and originality
• Keen interest in seeking challenges and solving advanced-level problems.
Report card grades, proximity to the eligibility score, and other available data will also be considered.
Parents are encouraged to submit a letter highlighting strengths and interests of the student outside of school. Examples of supporting evidence provided by the parent may include one or more of the following:
- Examples of outstanding student products relevant to the content area (creative writing samples, published writing, original scientific models/ designs, computer and/ or math games, etc.)
- Anecdotal information
- Student evaluations, grades, curriculum-based assessments
- Keen interest and/or extensive knowledge of topics within a specific content area
- Participation in out-of-school enrichment or accelerated programs
- Awards/ certificates
Student progress and readiness is continuously reviewed, and placement recommendations may be made throughout all three middel school grade levels. Placement reviews typically occur at the end of the first grading quarter, and in March for placement for the following school year.
Requesting a Placement Review
Parents who would like to request testing or a placement review may send a written request to
Ms. Singleton, G/T Resource Teacher, [email protected]. Please include your child's name and present grade.