G/T Identification Process

• Multiple criteria are used to identify gifted learners, which are reviewed by campus committees, all of whom are trained in the identification and assessment of gifted learners. 

• The GT Review Committee consists of the principal or assistant principal, a counselor, and G/T Specialist.  Other members may include classroom teacher(s), instructional specialists, and/or district administrators.

By state law and Texas Education Agency guidelines, no single criterion may be the basis for identification, nor may any single person make placement decisions.

In Lake Worth ISD, there are four steps to the gifted and talented identification process:

1. Referral
2. Screening
3. Review
4. Notification

Step 1:  Referral

• Students may be referred to the gifted and talented program at any time by teachers, school counselors, parents/guardians, or other interested persons. 
• Referral forms may be obtained from the student’s campus counselor.
• Completed referral forms must be returned to the campus office.  The campus counselor is available to assist with questions about the form.
• Referred students will be assessed during the designated district testing window.
• Students who are screened and found not eligible for the G/T program may be referred to again at any time during the following school year.

Step 2:  Screening

• Written parent/guardian permission is required prior to assessment.
• Data collected through both objective and subjective assessments shall be measured against the criteria approved by the School Board to determine individual eligibility for the program. 
• Assessment tools may include, but are not limited to, the following: achievement tests, intelligence tests, creativity tests, observational checklists completed by teachers and parents/guardians, student/parent conferences, and student work products and/or student portfolios.

Step 3:  Review

• A student profile is used to collect evidence to identify students who perform or show the potential for performing at remarkably high levels of accomplishment relative to their age, peers, experience, or environment.
• The profile form includes both quantitative (objective) and qualitative (subjective) criteria.
• Each student's profile is reviewed by a campus committee including at least three educators who have been specially trained in the identification and assessment of gifted and talented students.
• A preponderance of evidence is required to determine that participation in the G/T program would be beneficial in meeting the student’s educational needs.

Step 4:  Notification

• Once the review process is complete, the parent/guardian will be notified of the results within 10 days of the committee meeting.
• Parent/guardian permission is required prior to participation in the G/T program.
• PEIMS data will be updated with the G/T indicator for identified G/T students once parent/guardian permission has been received.
• All parents/guardians of screened students may request a conference to examine their child’s results.  Conference requests should be made on the student’s home campus.

Appeal Process

• A parent/guardian may appeal an identification determination by submitting a written request for appeal within 10 school days from receipt of the notification letter.  
• The committee will reconvene to consider the need for further assessment data or other evidence demonstrating educational need.