Students are referred for the gifted education program through a
multi-criteria process. 
Recommendations are given by classroom teachers
and/or parents. In addition to these recommendations, standardized test
scores, classroom grades, and work samples are taken into consideration. Parents and
teachers contact the gifted education teacher at Pattie Elementary School if
they are interested in having a student screened. In order for a child to
begin the individual student identification process, written permission is
required.
A local school committee reviews the student's screening portfolio and makes a preliminary recommendation. The portfolio is then sent to a screening committee on the Division level for a final recommendation. Both committees are composed of representatives from administration and guidance, as well as members of the gifted education staff and classroom teachers.