In accordance with the WJCC Vision/Mission statement, gifted learners receive educational services that provide opportunities directed to their unique needs. These services include a differentiated instructional program that teaches higher level thinking processes in a learning environment that is respectful of the uniqueness of the individual student and conducive to risk-taking and exploration of new ideas. A flexible instructional pace enables students to maximize their learning. The K-12 continuum of services is designed to emphasize the importance of matching services to student needs.
Visions is the name given to the gifted program in WJCC. Each of our nine elementary schools has a full-time gifted resource teacher who works collaboratively with classroom teachers and other staff to meet the cognitive and affective needs of gifted learners. Formal identification for students referred takes into consideration ability tests, achievement scores, observations, teacher and parent rating scales, class participation, and student products.
In our three middle schools and three high schools are classroom teachers who also manage the gifted program screening responsibilities.
The Local Plan for the Education of the Gifted explains in detail all aspects of gifted education in WJCC. Also included in that plan are the long-range goals. A copy of the Local Plan is available in each school.
- Spy Museum Kids Games
- New York Times Daily Puzzle: Set
- Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series
- Scripp’s National Spelling Bee
- Storyline Online
- Arcade-Style Math Games
- Squirmin’ Herman & The Great Plant Escape
- Alice.org
- Alice 2.2
- Architecture
Local places for students to go and expand their knowledge of various museums and historical sites in the region. A great way to help enhance student’s prior knowledge is through exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Universal screening will be completed for all kindergarten and second grade students.
The following services will be provided:
- Grades K push-in services to classrooms
- Grades 1-5 enrichment services
- Fifth grade academic program in Language Arts and Math for students formally identified as gifted.
- Grades 6-8-specific academic gifted classes in Language Arts, Social studies, and/ or Math
- Grades 9-10- specific academic gifted classes in Language Arts, Social studies
- Grades 10-12- AP courses, DE courses and Governor’s School
Many criteria are reviewed to help determine eligibility for gifted services. These may include:
- One or more ability tests, (i.e. IQ test)
- Achievement tests
- Portfolio of student work
- Rating scales of gifted behaviors completed by parents and teachers
- Grades
No. However, students not eligible for gifted services still have opportunities for differentiation, including honors classes and a wide variety of elective courses.
No.  Both screening for gifted services and delivery of instruction are for those students currently enrolled in WJCC schools.
Yes, the student maintains his/her gifted placement.  However, a student may need to complete screening for additional gifted services.
Since each school division has different gifted services offered, we will review the student’s file for documentation and determine screening or placement.  Exception:  Students from a military family who have written documentation are placed provisionally and reviewed as needed.
No, once a student is found eligible for gifted services, the placement remains.
You will want to meet with the gifted resource teacher to discuss the results.  After that meeting a parent can appeal the placement decision.  If the student is not determined eligible on appeal, a parent can refer a child again after one calendar year.
Make contact with the gifted resource teacher at your child’s school to discuss the process. You will then complete both a referral form and a permission to test form.
