Critique of Gifted and Talented programs in Public Schools.

All staff members are encouraged to consider and to refer students for Gifted & Talented
services, throughout the school year, for one or more of the five talent areas.
The Iowa Test of Basic Skills is administered in October to all students in grades
3 - 8. The G/T (gifted and talented) facilitator will examine these scores to screen for
students with intellectual and academic ability. An overall LPR score of 95% and higher
on the ITBS, or WISC-R, is an indicator.
The G/T facilitator will then assess the candidates, using a combination of formal
and informal tests and checklists. The preferred instrument for measuring IQ is the
WISC-III. A percentile rank of 95 and higher is an indicator. Other assessment tools will
be used as necessary such as the WJ (Woodcock Johnson) version. Since the ITBS is not
given below 3rd grade, and the local state tests are subject to change, the G/T facilitator
may administer the Weschler Individual Achievement Test to K-2 grade stud...