North East School District

Students exhibiting exceptional aptitude or proficiency in academic, intellectual, or creative domains may be considered for a gifted evaluation initiated by the District or upon a formal written request from the parent or guardian. The District employs a comprehensive screening process that includes input from parents, teachers, and assessment data to identify candidates for further evaluation. Parents or guardians who believe their child may meet the qualifications outlined in PDE Chapter 16 for Gifted designation are encouraged to submit a written request for evaluation to the building principal, School Psychologist, or Supervisor of Special Education. All evaluation requests will be reviewed by a multidisciplinary team to determine whether an assessment is warranted.

A comprehensive evaluation will be conducted by the school psychologist, which includes a combination of assessment tools and a review of existing evaluation data. Following the evaluation, a team will convene to analyze the results and discuss appropriate recommendations. If the student is identified as meeting the criteria for Gifted Education services, the team will collaborate to develop a Gifted Individualized Education Program (GIEP).

To be eligible for gifted services, a student must meet the state’s definition of mentally gifted:

“Mentally gifted” is defined as outstanding intellectual and creative ability the development of which requires specially designed programs or support services, or both, not ordinarily provided in the regular education program. (22 Pa. Code §16.1)

Please note that intellectual ability is assessed through multiple measures and is not solely determined by an IQ score.  Intellectual ability is and should be a reflection of a range of assessments including a student’s performance and potential.

Each student identified as eligible for Gifted Education is provided with a Gifted Individualized Education Program (GIEP). The GIEP is a comprehensive, strength-based plan that outlines specific goals for the academic year and details any supplementary activities or services the student may receive. The GIEP team convenes at least annually to review the student’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to the plan. The selection of gifted activities and services is tailored to the individual needs and interests of each student and may vary by school building. 

All GIEPs are managed and monitored by the district’s Gifted Education Coordinator to ensure appropriate implementation and support.

• Pennsylvania Association For Gifted Education
• PA Department Of Education – Gifted Education Frequently Asked Questions
• National Association For Gifted Children
• Notice Of Parental Rights For Gifted Students