Gifted testing in Virginia Beach requires that we have knowledge of the whole child before determining whether he/she will be identified. We look at a variety of things- results from a cognitive abilities test, parent feedback, teacher feedback, student grades/work, etc.
The test we currently use is called the CogAT test. Unlike regular classroom tests, there is no way to prepare for this. It allows us to determine a student's problem solving and reasoning abilities, skills that students have groomed both inside and outside of the academic setting since birth.
Our process is pretty simple. Parents, teachers, guidance counselors, friends, or the student himself/herself are able to recommend a student for gifted testing. Letters are sent to those students' parents, parents are asked to complete an application, teachers complete an application, and students show up for testing day! Once all data has been collected, a committee of qualified people review the information to determine whether the student is identified, on hold, or denied. That information is uploaded to parent portal.
If you have any questions about this process, you can contact Mrs. LO or the Gifted Testing Office
What are the advantages of gifted testing?
Gifted testing is extremely advantageous for a variety of reasons.
1. We know that gifted students learn best when in an environment where they are surrounded by their peers. Once a student is identified, we put them into a gifted cluster, which enables them to be in pods with other gifted students, and taught by teachers who work with the GRT, as well as receive training specifically for gifted students.
2. Many opportunities are provided to students when they are identified as "gifted." During 10th and 11th grade, students have the opportunity to apply to the Summer Residential Governor's School, a month long program that allows them to receive hands-on training in an area of their interest. During 11th and 12th grade, gifted students are able to apply for specific scholarships, an opportunity that MANY are excited about.
3. Self-discovery- I find that a lot of gifted students struggle understanding who they are and why they are that way. Many don't realize that giftedness is a part of your being-- it affects you academically, socially, and emotionally. Once identified, students often have "lightbulb" moments, realizing parts of themselves that have previously been a mystery.
4. Peer-groups- A lot of gifted students grow up feeling misunderstood. Once students are identified, clustering them with other gifted students helps them find their peer group. Many begin to feel comforted that there are others like them in the world.
2018-2019 Testing Dates and Information
Princess Anne has two dates for gifted testing: December 7 and May 6 Advertising for upcoming testing begins two months before the testing date. Students should listen to announcements!!
This year, we have gone to an online application, which has been really excellent for parents and teachers alike. To access this application, please visit giftedapplication.vbcps.com
If you have any questions about the status of the application or any other questions about the testing process, please feel free to e-mail me at [email protected]