Gifted Programming in Cabarrus County Schools

CCS Elementary AIG Programming 1st & 2nd 3rd, 4th, 5th

LIFT To cultivate and nurture gifted potential in young, Purpose: To cultivate and nurture gifted potential in young, high ability students.

LIFT Format First Grade Second Grade A series of whole group lessons highlighting thinking skills followed by small group lessons. Whole group and small group lessons alternate throughout the school year. AIG Teacher and Classroom teacher observe during these lessons to determine small groups. Groups are fluid and flexible. Second Grade Consecutive whole group lessons focusing on more in-depth thinking skills are taught the first semester. Small group lessons are taught during the second semester. AIG teacher uses portfolio data and classroom teacher input to determine small groups. Groups members tend to remain the same during the second semester.

LIFT Curriculum: The LIFT program consists of whole group and small group lessons focusing on Convergent, Divergent, Visual/Spatial, and Evaluative thinking skills. Dudley Sybil Isabelle Max Jordan

Please understand… Students pulled for small groups in 1st grade may not necessarily be pulled for small groups in 2nd grade. Group participation is determined by a student’s individual strengths. Small group participation does not mean that they are formally identified AIG. The formal identification process will take place in 3rd-5th grade.

“One program does not fit all” Academically gifted: student performs well above grade level in one or more academic areas. “Strong student” Intellectually gifted: student possesses a high I.Q./ aptitude score in comparison to peers. Has the ability to learn new information quickly. Gifted programs VARY by county/state. Each has unique placement criteria. “One program does not fit all” *

While gifted students can often tend to demonstrate good character traits and behaviors- these should not be confused with the true characteristics of GIFTED learners.

AIG Nomination and Testing Timeline & Expectations August-September: 4th and 5th Grade Nominations are reviewed, students tested, and placement determined. Late September-October: 3rd Grade Nominations are reviewed, students tested and placement determined. If the AIG team proceeds with a students nomination: Parents receive permission forms for testing Testing takes place (Aptitude and/or achievement) Test results and placement/ non-placements are sent to parents If Student is Identified as Gifted, parents will receive an invitation to attend a parent meeting.

Questions? Angie Waters angela.waters@cabarrus.k12.nc.us Angie Martin angela.martin@cabarrus.k12.nc.us