If a student is identified as Gifted and Talented (GT), they may go to their neighborhood school (Pioneer Elementary) or apply for the Discovery Program which is housed at another school. The Discovery Program is designed for those students who have needs so intense that they cannot be met in a regular classroom.
Important Information: Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) - 2nd and 5th grade Universal Screening
Universal Screening
Based on feedback from families and the Colorado Department of Education, and our commitment to increased equitable identification practices, we have made improvements to our Universal Screening process. In the spring of 2020, DCSD transitioned from the “paper pencil” CogAT to the online version. The online assessment platform provides for easier administration, faster results, and access to the directions in multiple languages other than English. (NOTE: Additional language options are in process.)
As part of this process, ALL students in 5th grade not identified for gifted programming will take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) November 2nd-19th, 2021. 2nd Grade Universal Screen will take place February 7th-25th, 2022.
This assessment indicates the level and pattern of cognitive development of a student in comparison to grade and age mates. These general reasoning abilities, which start developing at birth and continue through early adulthood, are influenced by experiences gained both in and out of school.
If your child is already identified for gifted programming, they will not participate in this universal screen testing. Your Gifted Education Facilitator will contact you directly with information about this process.
If your child is in a grade other than 2nd and 5th and you believe he/she needs evaluation for Gifted Identification and Services, and you have not done so already, please initiate the Gifted Identification Referral Process by completing the referral form linked HERE.
NOTE: Completing this referral form WILL NOT initiate the CogAT assessment.
Upon receipt of this form the Gifted Education Facilitator will connect with you to discuss next steps in the gifted identification process.