Why doesn’t the district blanket test for gifted identification?
Gifted identification tests are not designed for blanket testing. Practice shows that when blanket testing is held, fewer students are identified! This can occur for several reasons. The testing environment may not be ideal because there are usually many students being tested at one time. Testing large groups can cause distractions that can otherwise be prevented in a more controlled setting. Gifted identified students are as far removed from the norm as are students qualifying for special education services. Based on a bell curve, equal percentages of students fall into each of these special-needs groups. Teachers and parents who recognize the special needs of these students are encouraged to recommend the students for testing. To help parents and teachers determine if testing is appropriate for a student, we have created a Parent Nomination packet and Teacher Nomination packet.
Gifted identification tests are not designed for blanket testing. Practice shows that when blanket testing is held, fewer students are identified! This can occur for several reasons. The testing environment may not be ideal because there are usually many students being tested at one time. Testing large groups can cause distractions that can otherwise be prevented in a more controlled setting. Gifted identified students are as far removed from the norm as are students qualifying for special education services. Based on a bell curve, equal percentages of students fall into each of these special-needs groups. Teachers and parents who recognize the special needs of these students are encouraged to recommend the students for testing.
