PreK-1 Testing and Qualifications

Thank you for your interest in the Highly Gifted (HG) Program at Rogers Park Elementary. Referrals for testing or more information can be requested by contacting the Administrative Assistant, Cindy Diggs at diggs_cynthia@asdk12.org or (907)742-3795.

Qualification Requirements for the Highly Gifted Program Kindergarten and 1st Grade:

-Children must be at least five years old.

-A child needs one score at the 98^th percentile on a cognitive ability test, two scores at the 98^th percentile in achievement, and one score at the 99^th percentile on an IQ assessment. Testing begins with a cognitive ability test. A score of 98^th percentile must be met to continue with the achievement testing.  If both the ability and achievement score requirements are met, an IQ evaluation request is submitted.

-A child needs one score at the 99^th percentile on a cognitive ability test, and two scores at the 98^th percentile for achievement: one for math achievement and one for reading achievement, and one score at the 99^th percentile on an IQ assessment. Testing begins with a cognitive ability test. One score at the 99^th percentile must be met to continue with the achievement testing.  If both the ability and achievement score requirements are met, an IQ evaluation request is submitted.

-The cognitive ability tests measure critical thinking skills such as logic, reasoning, advanced vocabulary and analogous thinking. The ability test has a verbal and quantitative battery. The verbal battery assesses verbal reasoning retrieval and comparison processes such as analogies, picture classification and vocabulary.  The quantitative battery assesses reasoning about patterns and relations using concepts essential in quantitative reasoning, number puzzles, number patterns and number series. 

-The achievement tests measure reading and math skills.  Students must be able to read and do math computations.  Testing is administered one on one.

-We take breaks during the testing and often testing is divided into two or more sessions. Usually, the students perform at least two grade levels higher than their age group peers.

-A few of the characteristics common to many advanced learners:

• Has fun learning and is a self-motivated learner
• Learns after a few exposures or repetitions – quick mastery as compared to peers
• Advanced vocabulary
• Reading sentences
• Successfully completes complex math calculations
• Ability to read and interpret graphs
• Ability to analyze and synthesize information

There is no real preparation for testing other than to offer your child enriching experiences, nurture children’s diverse interests, and encourage them to make their best effort. As in any testing situation, a well-rested, well-fed, and relaxed child has an advantage.