GT Referral Information and FAQs

Q: When can I refer a learner for GT testing to determine need for academic services?

Referrals are accepted year round.  However, screening takes place once per year beginning in November and concluding at the end of February.  To be screened in this window referrals must be completed before the October 29, 2021 deadline.  Referrals completed after this date will be tested in the following year testing window.  

Q: Who may refer a learner for GT screening?  

Students transferring into PFISD who have been identified as eligible for GT Services in another district must meet PFISD's identification standards (EHBB-Local).  Students transferring from a GT program in another district or another state must provide documentation of GT qualification and participation. Initially the student will be placed in a GT cluster class at the principal’s discretion pending review of records.  Parents will be notified of placement with the GT Identification for Students New to the District form.  The campus GT Advocate will work with the district GT Specialist to determine whether the records indicate a need for GT services based on PFISD’s identification screening criteria and will document records on the Review of New to District GT Students form.  Records must include CogAT scores or comparative test scores.  If there are major discrepancies or not enough evidence between our district screening process and the previous school records, the GT Advocate may request that a local GT evaluation process be completed if the student has enrolled during the first semester of school; students entering during the second semester will be screened during the first two weeks of the following school year. The campus GT advocate and district GT Specialist will make a determination within 6 weeks of the student's enrolment in the district. Parents will be notified of the committee’s decision in writing with the GT Identification for Students New to the District form.

Transfer students unable to provide GT documentation from their previous school district will be placed into regular classes or cluster classes and may be nominated for screening during the next screening window.

Military Exception: Students from a military family who transfer into PFISD and who have been identified as eligible for GT services in another district will be placed in GT cluster classrooms and coded “1” by the registrar.  The District shall initially honor the placement of the student in a GT cluster classroom based on current educational assessments conducted at the sending district or participation/placement in like programs in the sending state; however, subsequent evaluations can be given upon review of student records or student performance to ensure appropriate placement and continued enrollment of the student in the course(s) (FDD – Legal). The campus GT Determination Committee will follow transfer student guidelines to review student records or conduct testing as needed.