Colfax School District 300 uses multiple measures to identify students who perform or show potential for performing at significantly advanced academic levels when compared with others of their age, experiences, or environments. These measures include cognitive ability tests, achievement tests taken at school, and teacher observation.
We evaluate referred students in the same way. We begin by looking at a student's most recent cognitive assessment, as well as reading and math data. We do not have a specific score that we use to identify students as Highly Capable. When we review a student's data, we compare theirs to all other students in their grade, which is different every year and for every grade level. The assessment data used for identification is the same for all students in a grade level. However, the assessment data can vary from grade level to grade level.
We use the most objective data available for all students to determine their current ability and future potential in academic subjects. These include, but are not limited to: the Woodcock-Johnson IV Cognitive and Academic Achievement Assessments, complete record review, Creative Assessment (Renzulii scales), MAP Testing, state assessment data, WaKids (kindergarten), and other classroom based and curriculum assessments.
To identify the most highly capable students, we review the above data and compare students to their grade level peers. By using multiple data points, we ensure that no single score either identifies or eliminates a student from consideration.
Exit Process
The exit process may be initiated for students who no longer demonstrate a need for highly capable program services. A request may be made by a teacher or program administrator for highly capable student identification and placement discontinuation. The Multi-Disciplinary Selection Committee will convene a meeting to review the student's profile to determine if the student qualifies for program services based on assessment data and selection criteria. The Multi-Disciplinary Selection Committee may request additional evidence of student capabilities and/or willingness to participate in the program. If the committee determines that the student no longer qualifies for highly capable program services, it may be recommended that the student be exited from the program. The parent will be notified in writing of the meeting, the committee's decision, and the appeal process.
A parent/legal guardian may request that the student be withdrawn from the program, or a student may voluntarily withdraw from the program. A meeting will be convened by the Highly Capable Program Director to discuss the request. If the parent/legal guardian desires to withdraw the student from the program, the student will be exited from the program.