Qualifying for the Gifted program (focus)
A referral for testing for the gifted program usually begins with system-wide testing (CogAT and/or ITBS) in grades 1, 2, 3, and 5. New students in grades 2 and 4 who come from other states may also be tested if their teachers observe a possible need for services. Anyone can make a request for a student to be considered for FOCUS, but a referral team consisting of the child's classroom teacher, a Gifted Program teacher, and an administrator determine whether or not a need for further testing is indicated.