I have a copy of the IAS, and although I probably COULD argue for a whole grade skip (and make the case that he is an excellent candidate), this would be my LAST choice option (if there were absolutely no better alternatives).
Beyond being a tool useful for considering a full grade skip, some schools may use the IAS to
prepare a complete record of a student's scores and "thoroughly discuss the case and to consider other curricular options and recommendations for the student." (Manual page 34)
Did anyone actually use their outside test scores with their schools and have some success with them?
The following is a generic answer discussing the role of testing at a high level and not pertinent to a particular school or district. The purpose is to provide background information only.
1) Outside test results may be helpful supplemental information in that they may indicate high ability and/or achievement.
2) To the degree that extensive prep materials may exist for some tests, some schools/districts may not accept outside testing but rather will conduct their own testing/assessment, often with multiple instruments, and check for an indication of fairly consistent range of performance among tests, possibly also cross-checking test results with
demonstrated ability/achievement in the classroom.
3) The potential shown by most typical outside or school-administered ability/achievement testing does not necessarily translate directly to curriculum placement or pacing. Tests such as MAP and/or school end-of-year tests may be more indicative of curriculum placement and pacing.
4) The supplemental role of typical ability/achievement tests is then one of suggesting that the child has the intellectual capacity to continue to flourish with advanced academics over time. That said, many life occurrences and events may impact learning and specifically academic progress. Similar to the disclaimer on many financial investments, "past performance does not guarantee future results".
