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Discovering the U.S.
More information can be found at the following organizations’ websites:
+
The National Association for Gifted Children
( www.nagc.org )+
The Association for the Gifted/TAG
( www.cectag.org )+
Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted/SENG
( www.sengifted.org )+
University of Connecticut’s Neag Center for Gifted Education and Talent Development
( www.gifted.uconn.edu )Standardized Tests
Testing that takes place throughout your child’s education will be discussed on the State
Department of Education website. Every state tests its students by using two kinds of measures:
+
Criterion-referenced tests reflect the curriculum that is taught within the state. These
tests usually include mathematics, science, reading, writing and social studies
+
Norm-reference tests assess individual student performance against national norms.
Consult your school district for information regarding standardized testing
Advanced Placement
The Advanced Placement Program (AP) is available to students at the high school level. AP
courses are offered within high schools with the option to take AP examinations offered by the
College Board, a non-profit examination board in the U.S. High scores on these tests can help
with course placement for college freshmen and possibly allow high school students to earn
college credit. Over ninety percent of U.S. colleges and universities recognize AP Examination
grades for credit and/or placement. AP courses offered will vary; consult your school district for
information regarding local AP programs.
High School Graduation Requirements
Minimum high school graduation requirements are detailed on the website of the State
Department of Education. Local districts may add to the minimum state requirements, so it is
important to obtain a list of requirements from your local district as well.
Many states now require students to pass
a high school competency test in order to
graduate. This test is often administered
during the student’s junior year of high
school so that those who do not pass the
first administration have additional
opportunities to retake the test.