Gifted in Alabama
Intellectually gifted children and youth are those who perform or who have demonstrated the potential to perform at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared with others of their age, experience, or environment. These children and youth require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program. Children and youth possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor.
A student may be referred by teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self, or any other individuals with knowledge of the student's abilities. Additionally, all second grade students will be observed as potential gifted referrals using a gifted behavior checklist.
Information is obtained in the following areas:
- Aptitude. Aptitude is assessed through an individual or group test of intelligence or creativity. Vision and hearing screening is completed prior to completing individually administered aptitude assessments.
- Performance. At least three examples of student performance that indicate the student is performing at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared to others of his or her age, experience, or environment are included.
- Characteristics. A behavior rating scale designed to assess gifted behaviors is used.
The scores from the assessments/items used are entered on a matrix where points are assigned according to established criteria. The total number of points are assigned according to established criteria. The total number of points earned determines if the student qualifies for gifted services.
