The Exceptional Children's Education Act (ECEA) defines "gifted" children as: Those persons between the ages of four and twenty-one whose aptitude or competence in abilities, talents, and potential for accomplishment in one or more domains are so exceptional or developmentally advanced that they require special provisions to meet their educational programming needs.

Each state has its own rules for gifted programming and identification. In Colorado, we look for qualifying scores and a strong, robust body of evidence to support a gifted ID. Qualifying scores are:

• 95th percentile or higher on a standardized nationally normed test or

• 95th percentile or above on a nationally normed observation scale or

• A rating on a performance assessment that indicates exceptionality/distinguished compared to age mates

How do we know who is gifted? Throughout the school year, we track student scores on various assessments. Our Multi-Tiered System of Supports teams review this data and makes recommendations for further assessing when students reach the 95th percentile in any given area. We also screen all of our 2nd grade students in the spring with a cognitive assessment. Once a student is identified, an Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) is put in place. The ALP includes goals, both academic and affective, along with instructional support. As students move into high school, support for postsecondary plans is included through the Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP).