Getting into QUEST

 Gifted and talented

How does a student “get into QUEST?” The program follows the guidelines recommended by the Colorado Department of Education. There is automatic district-wide testing at the beginning of the school year for all 3rd grade students. Students are also assessed and formally identified by the following process. The GT staff uses the district-wide MAPS test results as one screening tool for assessment.  Teachers also refer students for screening when they observe high ability characteristics in a student.  After an initial screening of the information available and when additional assessment is appropriate, a Parent Referral form will be sent home.  This form not only provides the necessary authorization to administer additional assessments, but also very importantly, gives the parents the opportunity to tell us more about their child from their perspective.  Once the Parent Referral form has been received in the office, the student will be scheduled for the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) during the day in small amounts of time.  The CogAT requires a minimum of three weeks to complete for optimum testing conditions.  Once the MAPS and CogAT results are analyzed, the determination of placement or not into the program can be made.  More material for a “body of evidence” may be requested from the current and perhaps even previous classroom teacher.  You will be notified in writing as soon as possible.  Please understand that we want to give each student the best opportunity and there is more than one pathway for identification.  Sometimes that means taking time to further analyze the results and gather more information on the student.  We have not forgotten about you, the parent, we are just being thorough.You will be notified if your child qualifies for QUEST.