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Gifted & Talented Programming

Larkspur Elementary is committed to recognizing and supporting students with advanced learning needs. Our Gifted and Talented (GT) programming addresses the academic and social-emotional needs of identified gifted learners while providing opportunities for appropriate challenge, enrichment, and growth.

Universal Screening for Gifted Identification

Douglas County School District is committed to equitable practices that increase access to advanced and gifted learning opportunities. As part of this commitment, DCSD conducts universal screening at designated grade levels.

Students participate in universal screening in:

  • Second grade in February
  • The final year of elementary school in November

Fifth/Sixth Grade Universal Screening

Students in fifth or sixth grade who are not already identified for gifted programming participate in the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) as part of the universal screening process.

The CogAT measures patterns of cognitive development and general reasoning abilities in comparison with other students of the same age and grade. These abilities develop over time and are influenced by experiences both in and outside of school.

Students who are already identified for gifted programming do not participate in the universal screening assessment. Families of identified students will receive information from the school's Gifted Education Facilitator as needed.

Referral for Gifted Identification

Families or teachers may also initiate the gifted identification process for students who are not participating in universal screening.

If your child is in third or fourth grade and you believe they may need evaluation for gifted identification and services, you may submit a referral.

Please note that submitting a referral formally begins the gifted identification process.

DCSD Gifted & Talented Referral Link

After the referral is received, the Gifted Education Facilitator will contact you to discuss the next steps in the identification process.

 

GT Programming at Larkspur

Gifted programming at Larkspur is designed to provide appropriate levels of challenge while supporting the whole child. Programming may include differentiated classroom instruction, enrichment opportunities, small-group experiences, and support for students' social-emotional development.

Differentiated Literacy Instruction

Teachers differentiate literacy instruction based on student readiness and learning needs. Students may participate in targeted reading and writing instruction, advanced learning opportunities, and activities designed to deepen comprehension, analysis, and written expression.

Differentiated Math Instruction

Math instruction is differentiated to provide appropriate challenge and support. Teachers may use flexible small groups, advanced problem-solving tasks, and extension activities that allow students to explore mathematical concepts beyond grade-level expectations when appropriate.

Enrichment Opportunities

Students may participate in enrichment opportunities throughout the year, including activities such as:

  • Spelling Bee
  • Math Olympiad for students in grades 4–6
  • Small-group enrichment with the Gifted Education Facilitator

Enrichment opportunities may vary from year to year based on student needs and available programming.

Social-Emotional Support

Identified gifted students participate in affective learning opportunities designed to support the social-emotional aspects of giftedness.

Students explore strategies and skills related to areas such as self-awareness, perseverance, relationships, emotional regulation, goal setting, and navigating challenges that can accompany advanced learning needs.

Contact

For questions about gifted programming or the identification process at Larkspur Elementary, contact Mrs. Furey, Gifted Education Facilitator, at Kfurey@dcsdk12.org

 

Gifted Education Links