Gifted and Talented

CogAT Testing Information

DCSD is committed to implementing equitable practices to increase access to advanced/gifted learning opportunities. Based on state and national recommendations and requirements, we implement Universal Screening for students in 2nd grade (February) and 5th or 6th grade--a student's final year of elementary school (November).

 

6th Grade Universal Screen

As part of this process, ALL students in 6th grade not identified for gifted programming will take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) the week of November 11-13. This assessment indicates the level and pattern of cognitive development of a student in comparison to grade and age mates.  These general reasoning abilities, which start developing at birth and continue through early adulthood, are influenced by experiences gained both in and out of school.  


If your child is already identified for gifted programming, they will not participate in this universal screen testing. Your Gifted Education Facilitator will contact you directly with information about this process. 


Gifted Identification Referral Testing

If your child is in grades 3, 4, or 5 and you believe they need evaluation for Gifted Identification and Services, you may refer your child for testing by initiating the Gifted Identification Process.  

NOTE:  Requesting this assessment automatically initiates the process to evaluate for Gifted Identification. 

Please request CogAT testing for your child by completing the Referral for Gifted Identification linked HERE.

Upon receipt of this form the Gifted Education Facilitator will connect with you to discuss next steps in the gifted identification process.
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Welcome to Gifted (GT) Programming at Larkspur Elementary School!

Our Gifted Programming is specifically designed to address the academic, social/emotional, and behavioral needs of students identified with advanced learning abilities. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect:

1) Differentiated Literacy Instruction: All teachers implement differentiated literacy instruction in their classrooms. This includes guided reading and writing sessions tailored to each student's instructional level, ensuring optimal learning experiences.

2) Differentiated Math Instruction: Math instruction is differentiated to accommodate varying learning needs. Teachers may organize students into small groups during math sessions, allowing for personalized attention and progression. Many groups engage in extension activities that go beyond the standard grade-level curriculum, preparing students for advanced mathematical concepts.

3) Enrichment Opportunities:  We provide various enrichment opportunities including the Spelling Bee and Math Olympiad (grades 4-6). Our GT facilitator conducts weekly 30-minute small-group sessions focused on tailored enrichment activities. 

4) Monthly Affective Goals Sessions: Identified gifted students convene monthly for our affective sessions. Here, they learn and apply strategies to enhance both their affective and academic skills, fostering a supportive environment for growth and development.

We're committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating educational experience that nurtures the unique talents and abilities of our gifted students. If you have any questions or would like further information, please don't hesitate to reach out.


To contact Mrs. Giraldes, please email smgiraldes@dcsdk12.org.



DCSD Gifted Programming Website

Douglas County Association of Gifted and Talented(DCAGT)  

Colorado Association of Gifted and Talented (CAGT)

National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)

Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG)

Colorado Department of Education - Gifted Information

Referral Form to begin the gifted identification process (teacher and/or parent may fill out)


Click here to go to my Google Site where you will find more information.


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In compliance with Titles VI & VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008, and Colorado law, the Douglas County School District RE-1 does not unlawfully discriminate against otherwise qualified students, employees, applicants for employment, or members of the public on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, religion, ancestry, or need for special education services. Discrimination against employees and applicants for employment based on age, genetic information, and conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth is also prohibited in accordance with state and/or federal law. Complaint procedures have been established for students, parents, employees, and members of the public. The School District's Compliance Officer and Title IX Coordinator to address complaints alleging sexual harassment under Title IX is Aaron Henderson, 620 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, [email protected], 303-387-0127.

Outside Agencies

Complaints regarding violations of Title VI, (race, national origin), Title IX (sex, gender), Section 504/ADA (handicap or disability), may be filed directly with the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, 1244 North Speer Blvd., Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204. Complaints regarding violations of Title VII (employment) and the ADEA (prohibiting age discrimination in employment) may be filed directly with the Federal Office of Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, 303 E. 17th Ave., Suite 510, Denver, CO 80202, or the Colorado Civil Rights Commission, 1560 Broadway, Suite 1050, Denver, CO 80202.

NOTICE OF DESTRUCTION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION RECORDS

Special Education records which have been collected by Douglas County School District related to the identification, evaluation, educational placement, or the provision of special education in the district, must be maintained under state and federal laws for the period of five (5) years after special education services have ended for the student. Special education services end when the student is no longer eligible for services, graduates, or completes his/her educational program at age 21, or moves from the district. This notification is to inform parents/guardians and former students of Douglas County School District's intent to destroy the special education records of students who exited special education services as of June 30, 2016. These records will be destroyed in accordance with state law unless the parent/guardian or eligible (adult) student notifies the school district otherwise. After five years, the records are no longer useful to the district, but may be useful to the parent/guardian or former student in applying for social security benefits, rehabilitation services, college entrance, etc. The parent/guardian or eligible (adult) student may request a copy of the records by requesting the records at this link ( Douglas County School District Transcripts and Records Requests ).