GCISD Program & Policy Updates Archive

11/10/2024 4:50 pm

2024 GT Identification Testing & Timeline Update

Publication Date: January 5, 2024

GCISD announced updates to the timeline and process for GT Identification testing. The district shifted the main testing window earlier to late fall, allowing for placement decisions to be finalized by the end of the school year. The change aimed to reduce parental anxiety and provide families with more notice regarding placement in specialized programs. The primary tools used for assessment remained the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) and the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT).

DOCUMENT REFERENCE: Link to 2024 GT Testing Calendar and Parent Information Document

2022 ASPIRE Secondary Curriculum Review

Publication Date: July 20, 2022

The GCISD Advanced Academics Department completed a major review of the ASPIRE Middle and High School curriculum. Key outcomes included the introduction of an Advanced Research Methods course at the high school level and a move toward interdisciplinary humanities units at the middle school level. The goal was to align the curriculum more closely with College Board AP Capstone methodologies and increase rigor for highly gifted learners. The review included input from SAGE leadership and multiple campus educators.

DOCUMENT REFERENCE: Link to ASPIRE Middle/High School Curriculum Map Highlights (2022-2023)

Publication Date: September 1, 2021

GCISD implemented new district-wide professional development modules focused on the social-emotional needs (SEL) of gifted students, including asynchronous development and perfectionism. All counselors and campus GT Leads received training on identifying and supporting these unique needs. This initiative followed several parent concerns voiced to the Board of Trustees regarding academic pressure and anxiety among high-achieving students. The district now mandates ongoing SEL training as part of the annual GT professional development requirement.

DOCUMENT REFERENCE: Link to Summary of GT SEL Professional Development Modules

2018 Formal Acceleration Policy Adoption

Publication Date: May 15, 2018

The GCISD Board of Trustees formally adopted a comprehensive policy for whole-grade and subject-matter acceleration. This policy, based on state guidelines and best practices, requires the use of the Iowa Acceleration Scale (IAS) for all whole-grade (grade-skipping) recommendations. SAGE successfully advocated for transparency and consistency in the application of the policy across all elementary and secondary campuses, providing clarity for families seeking non-traditional pacing options for their highly gifted children.

DOCUMENT REFERENCE: Link to GCISD Board Policy EHBAF (Legal) & EHBAF (Local)