The definition of giftedness comes from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under Chapter 16 of the Pennsylvania School Code.

“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)

The regulations specify that a student may be identified as gifted with an IQ score of 130 or higher or when multiple criteria strongly indicate gifted ability and demonstrated need for specially designed instruction. The determination of giftedness must include an assessment by a school psychologist.

School District Screening

 

Mars Area School District annually reviews student information to identify students, who may be mentally gifted and should be considered for a gifted evaluation using established procedures. The screening process fulfills the District’s responsibility to identify students who may need services or instruction that typically are not provided in general education. The District may initiate a referral for a gifted evaluation, based on the data collected for screening. The Special Education Office will send a “Permission to Evaluation (PTE)” form to the parent/guardian, along with a “Parent Input Form” through the U.S. Postal Service. The PTE form MUST be signed and returned for the evaluation to proceed.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Travis W. Mineard, Director of Special Education, at (724) 625-1518, ext. 1530 or [email protected].