Project Challenge
Project Challenge is an enrichment program offered to Cinnaminson Township students in grades 2 - 8 who are identified for gifted and talented services.
NAGC’s definition of giftedness
Students with gifts and talents perform - or have the capability to perform - at higher levels compared to others of the same age, experience, and environment in one or more domains. They require modification(s) to their educational experience(s) to learn and realize their potential. Student with gifts and talents:
- Come from all racial, ethnic, and cultural populations, as well as all economic strata.
- Require sufficient access to appropriate learning opportunities to realize their potential.
- Can have learning and processing disorders that require specialized intervention and accommodation.
- Need support and guidance to develop socially and emotionally as well as in their areas of talent.
- Require varied services based on their changing needs.
Identification
Multiple criteria may be used to identify students who require gifted and talented services. These include:
- Aptitude Assessments
- Achievement Assessments (Grade Level Benchmarks and State Testing)
- Recommendations (Teacher, Parent, Self)
- Evidence of Performance
- Checklists, Portfolios
Selection Process:
Universal screening is conducted at the end of the 5th grade. Note: Prior acceptance in the elementary program does not guarantee acceptance at the middle school level. Once students are identified for the program, they will not have to be rescreened for their time at CMS. However, if students struggle academically, the placement may be reevaluated for the student's best interest.
CMS Project Challenge: Identification Timeline
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April/May Universal Screening: All 5th Grade students are administered the CogAT Screener. June CogAT results letters are mailed. Students who meet the talent pool threshold, stanine 8 or above, will receive an emailed invitation to take the SAGES-3 aptitude test for further consideration. July Students in the talent pool will take the Sages-3 aptitude test on scheduled dates offered via the email invitation. August Decisions will be emailed to parents/guardians along with their student's results on the Sages-3. Contact the counseling office at the middle school for questions about student schedules. |
Challenge Identification:
A parent/guardian who wishes to challenge their child’s placement must first send their concerns in an email or letter to the building principal. This will begin the reevaluation process. The process may include an I&RS meeting, rescreening and/or evidence of the student’s work (portfolio). The parent/guardian will be notified of the final decision once all evidence has been reviewed.