GT Advocate:
Shayna Tipton, Magnet Director. Please contact me anytime at shayna.tipton@austinisd.org or 512-414-3207.
Gifted & Talented Referral Process:
Parents and teachers can refer students for Gifted & Talented screening by completing the AISD Gifted and Talented Referral Form. Students can also refer themselves!
The window to refer students for AISD's Gifted and Talented program opens on August 19th and closes on October 17th. These dates are firm due to the tight fall timeline set by AISD.
How does AISD's GT Program Work? What are the benefits for my student?
AISD recognizes giftedness in Humanities (English Language Arts &/or Social Studies) and STEM (Math &/or Science). Once a student is identified in any areas, they must be in an advanced class in their area of giftedness. The GT identifications guarantees students access to these courses and ensures that they are in classes with peers of their ability, which is important for their academic and social-emotional well-being. Advanced classes at Lively include: Pre-AP, Advanced Math courses, Magnet ELA and Magnet Social Studies courses. The GT designation stays with the student throughout their educational career. AISD also has the Talent Explore Program. This program is for high achieving students who did not qualify for GT services. The TE Program identifies these students to ensure they pursue advanced classes and are prioritized for GT screening in their future. These students are also highly encouraged to attend Lively's After School GT Club, which is open to any Lively student who would like to participate.
What if my child was already identified by AISD or a school or district out of AISD?
In District Transfer: Once identified by AISD, students do not need to re-test. The identification stays with them throughout their school career.
Out of District Transfer: Families who have joined us from out of AISD that have students who have been identified by previous schools can find information about GT service transfers here: https://www.austinisd.org/advanced-academics/gifted/transfers
How do I refer my student?
To refer your student, please fill out the AISD Gifted and Talented Referral Form.
What is the Identification Process?
The GT identification process considers quantitative and qualitative data. The GT Committee collects four pieces of data to assess students:
- Parent Observation Form
- The Teacher Observation
- CoGat Test
What is the GT Identification Timeline?
August 19th-October 17th: Student Referral Window
November 2nd: DEADLINE for Parent observation. This form also serves as permission for us to assess your student.
October 21st-November 14th: Teachers complete observation
October 27th-November 21st: CoGat Testing Window (specific testing dates will be shared with students and families after the referral window closes).
December 4th-17: GT Campus Committee reviews assessments and makes decisions regarding GT and Talent Explore placements.
December 19th: Parent Notification Letters sent home to families.
January 6th: Services begin for newly identified students.