Based on the unique needs and characteristics of students identified as gifted, the mission of the Whiteriver Unified School District is to provide an array of services to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of these students in our community. The district aims to deliver educational programs designed to assist gifted individuals to achieve their full potential in intellectual pursuits, community leadership, and creativity.
Gifted Testing Dates and Specifics
The follow date windows indicate Gifted testing schedules for the school year. Students may only be tested one time per calendar year. Parents will generally receive notice of testing results within four weeks following the closing of the testing window. Parents must sign for permission for their student to be tested for gifted services.
Students may be referred for gifted screening by the teacher, principal, or the parent of a K-8 student, at any time by completing a referral form. Students may also nominate themselves. Nominated students are then tested in verbal, quantitative, and non-verbal areas using a state-approved test.
Students receiving gifted services must meet the following qualifications:
Students who score at the 97th percentile or above in Verbal and Quantitative or Non-Verbal subtests of a state approved test of cognitive ability will be offered an Individual Learning Plan (ILP).
Areas of identification include:
- Quantitative - Student tends to think logically in terms of numbers and pieces of mathematical information.
- Verbal - Student has the ability to effectively use words and language.
- Non Verbal - Student tends to be highly skilled in regard to spatial awareness and abstract thinking through the use of mental images.
Individualized Learning Plans (ILP) services will be provided within the regular classroom by the regular classroom teacher.
New Students:
Parents must provide documentation of test scores on an Arizona approved test. A list of these tests is provided on the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) website. Test scores will be evaluated by the Exceptional Student Services Department responsible for Gifted Education or a designee to determine whether the student is eligible to receive gifted services under the Gifted/Talented Services criteria defined by WUSD Governing Board Policy.