Cullman City Schools

Gifted Program

DEFINITION:

Gifted students are those who perform at or who have demonstrated the potential to perform at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared to others of their age, experience, or environment. These students require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program. Students possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor.

REFERRALS/ELIGIBILITY

Teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self, or any other individuals with knowledge of the student’s abilities may refer a student. Additionally, all second grade students will be observed as potential gifted referrals using a gifted behavior checklist.

Cullman City Schools follows the Alabama State Code criteria for gifted eligibility. This includes but is not limited to data collection in the following areas:

Aptitude: Aptitude is assessed through an individual or group test of intelligence or creativity.

Characteristics: A behavior rating scale that is designed to assess gifted behaviors is completed by teachers or other persons with knowledge of the student.

Performance: At least three indicators of performance are required. These may include grades, achievement test scores, work samples, etc.

Scores from the above mentioned assessment items are entered on a matrix where points are assigned according to established criteria. Total number of points earned determines if a student qualifies for gifted services as per state criteria.

CONTACT:

To make a referral, contact the Guidance Counselor at your child’s school or Deborah F. Wright at 256-734-2233.

CONTACT

Contact Shannon Fondren at the Cullman City Board of Education (256-734-2233). E-mail: shannon.fondren@cullmancats.net