Private/Homeschool Q & A

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How will my child be screened for gifted?
The gifted liaison will administer the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (K-BIT 2) or the Naglieri Nonverbal Abilities Test (NNAT). Your child will need to score at or above the 90th percentile to be referred for further intellectual evaluation. Standardized test scores may also be used as a screening. If your child’s scores are in the 90th percentile or above on his/her most recent standardized testing in reading and math, further evaluation will be recommended.

How long will it take for my child to be screened?
The gifted liaison works with home/private/virtual school students in a timely manner, based on the date of the initial parent request. Wait time will vary based on the number of screening requests.

What test does a psychologist administer?
An individually administered test of intelligence such as the Reynolds Intellectual Assessment Scale (RIAS), Weschsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV) or Stanford Binet.

How long will it take for my child to be tested by a school psychologist?
Home/private/virtual school gifted requests are processed along with those of public school students. School psychologists work very hard to complete evaluations within 90 school days from the date the parent signs consent.

Can I hire a private psychologist to evaluate my child?
Yes. Parents may elect to use a certified psychologist to provide evaluation at their own expense.

The private psychologist said my child is gifted, can he/she start classes immediately?
No, the psychologist does not determine eligibility. The test results are only one piece of the required evaluation process. A meeting will be held to determine if your child is eligible based on state criteria.

Can pre- school students be evaluated for gifted?
No, students must be of kindergarten age. By state guidelines, students must be 5 on or before September 1st of the year they enter kindergarten.

What information will you need from my private school?
If your child is eligible for gifted, his/her teacher will be invited to attend the Educational Plan meeting. If the teacher is unable to attend, he/she will be sked to complete Teacher Planning Notes form which will provide information regarding your child’s classroom performance including any acceleration or enrichment activities.

I am interested in part-time gifted classes for my child. Can I choose the school I want him/her to attend?
Students are generally assigned to their zoned school for part-time gifted classes. Several factors, such as program model and school/class size capacity are considered before making the final assignment. If the zoned school is not an option, another school assignment will be offered to the student.

Once my child starts part-time elementary gifted classes, is he/she guaranteed to retain the same school assignment
through the end of 5th grade?
Every effort will be made to provide continuity for your child. However, should a change be necessary we will work with you to find another school assignment.

I want to apply to Ridgecrest or one of the Middle School Centers for Gifted Studies. Will the referral process be
completed in time to make an application?
Eligibility meetings for home/private/virtual school students are scheduled chronologically with those of public school students. Every effort will be made to complete your child’s referral in a timely manner based on the date of initial parent request. Please note that the magnet school application period is usually held in January/February. Parents must be able to provide verification of gifted eligibility for students applying for magnet seats grade two and above.

Does my child have to attend part-time classes if he/she is eligible?
No, you may choose not to participate in the gifted classes.