There are 3 elementaries in our district. 2 teachers are split between the schools. The first semester is for reading/language arts; the second semester is for math. Gifted services are provided beginning in 3rd grade.
I think kids who qualify on the Terra Nova in 2nd grade are admitted in 3rd grade with no other testing. GS didn't start to excell in school until the 3rd grade. By the time his 3rd grade teacher realized his ability they were already half way through the first semester, and she felt it was too late in the process to get him in the reading ETC last year. But she recommended him for testing for math for the second semester, so that's how he got in the math last year. But to get in the reading for this semester he had to wait for everyone to get coordinated to test any others recommended at the same time.
If they don't qualify on the Terra Nova, they use the ITBS. But they only give the section they're testing for at the time, either math or reading The way I understand it, too, they have to requalify on a nationally normed test every 2 years.
I was not overly impressed with this ETC teacher last year. I just don't think she's very good with elementary age kids, especially boys.
