Talented and Gifted Program Creek View Elementary School

1. Talented and Gifted ProgramCreek View Elementary School Jennifer Bowers BowersJ@fultonschools.org Carol Evans EvansCE@fultonschools.org www.cvestag.weebly.com

2. Important things to remember • “Screening” is not the same as “testing.” It simply means that we are reviewing data to determine who may be tested. • The state of Georgia and Fulton County Schools set the rules for screening, referral, testing, and eligibility.

3. Which standardized test scores does the TAG program use for screening and/or eligibility? • Checkpoints Acceleration Assessments • CRCT Scores • ITBS scores

4. How does the TAG program use Checkpoints Acceleration Assessments? • In grades K-1, a student who receives an 80%+ on both the reading and the math assessments are referred for possible testing in August. • In grades 2-3, a student who scores 80%+ on either the reading or the math are referred for possible testing in August. • These scores are not used for eligibility, only for screening.

5. How does the TAG program use CRCT scores? • We look at the CRCT scores from the previous school year each August for students in fourth and fifth grade. • Each year, the cut-off scores change. This year, the cut-off score for reading is 870+ and for math is 887+. Those meeting the cut-off score in either area are referred for possible testing. • Scores can be used for screening only, not for eligibility.

6. Primarily used for students in third and fifth We look at the total reading, total math, and composite scores. A student must have 85%+ in one of the areas AND 90%+ in another area in order to be referred for possible testing. These scores can also be used for eligibility as they are nationally normed. How does the TAG program use ITBS scores for screening?

7. What do you mean by “possible testing?” • All students need supporting information before they can be tested. This can include: • 90% total reading, total math, or composite on ITBS • 90% on TTCT • Advanced reading or math placement • Outstanding work products/performance • Mental ability score of 96%+ • Five categories checked on the CISS checklist during the current school year • 90% on GRS-M • CRCT cut-off score in reading or math • For students tested for TAG within the last two years, we need to check the testing history to see which, if any, tests can be given.

8. How do the ITBS scores tie into middle school placements? • In middle school, the students are served in content areas. The TAG subjects offered are Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. • In order to make middle school placements for TAG students, teachers primarily use: • Teacher recommendations • Content area grades (80%+) • ITBS scores (Total reading, Social Studies, and Science)

9. Where can I go if I have more questions? • TAG website at www.cvestag.weebly.com • Click on Frequently Asked Questions for information about screening, referral, testing, eligibility, and the program itself. • Click on Resources for information on websites, books, summer camps, products, and extension ideas. • If you do not find the answer to your question, please feel free to email us.