Q: Will my child have opportunities to relate with children of the same grade level in the rest of the school?

A: During part of the day, your student will participate in the Gifted Magnet Program. During the remainder of the day, your student will participate in classes, assemblies, etc with the rest of the student body, giving them the opportunity to build friendships and enjoy the numerous opportunities to join clubs, compete in athletics, etc that are available at middle school.

Q: Will I be able to participate as a volunteer?

A: Your child will be part of our school and we love volunteers. Be careful that we don't use too much of your time.

Q: Can my other children attend the same school?

A: Siblings at this time would need to request a transfer to the school. These requests are granted annually based on enrollment at the grade level. We will make every effort to help accommodate your need to keep your family together in one school setting.

Q: Will transportation be provided?

A: This is a difficult part of your decision. Your child may ride a bus if they can get to a scheduled bus stop for the school; otherwise you will need to transport.

Q: Why has the district offered this program?

A: The program is a response to parents' request for a full time gifted program. It is an added level of service in our district for gifted instruction. The district will continue to provide the pullout program to centers and of course each building site offers varying levels of differentiation of instruction at the classroom level.

Q: What should I consider before applying?

A: This is a very individual decision. If you feel your child needs to be challenged more in academics and your child has not made growth on test measures, you may consider this program. You must consider that your child will be grouped with many of the same peers for several years. You will need to consider your child's ability to make a change from their neighborhood school. You must assess your willingness to transport, if that is an issue.

Q: How will you select students for placement?

A: Student selection will be on-going. Applications will be considered as they are received and when current testing data has been secured from their present school. Students with qualifying scores will be eligible for placement in one of the district gifted classrooms. Parents' first request of location will always be considered. However, as classrooms become full, an alternate site may be offered.

Q: When will I know if my child has been placed in the program?

A: Parents will be notified by the receiving school as soon as your child has been accepted for placement. This should be a fairly short turn-a-round time, dependent on the securing of test data. Additional registration information will be secured at that time.