The Newberg Talented and Gifted (TAG) Program provides services for students identified as talented and gifted:

• instruction that addresses student’s assessed level and rate of learning
• assessments for the development of an appropriate instructional program

Screening for Talented and Gifted Testing
The Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) is the universal screening tool used for all third grade students in the fall of each year. The assessment requires the student to rely on reasoning and problem-solving skills rather than word knowledge, mathematics, or reading ability Test items do not require verbal or written answers. The assessment is fair and unbiased for minority students and for students with color vision or hearing impairments. Other screening tools shall include: teacher checklists, parent surveys, and the Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills.

A district screening team meets quarterly to review potential candidates for the TAG Program. This team recommends further testing for TAG eligibility. The TAG testing and eligibility process includes

• a district-approved nationally standardized mental ability test, used in identifying intellectually gifted students.
• a district-approved nationally normed achievement test, used for identifying academically talented students in the areas of mathematics and reading.

Students must score at or above the 97th percentile on a district-approved nationally standardized mental ability test, or a district-approved nationally normed achievement test in order to be identified as Talented and Gifted.

Instructional Program
Elementary
TAG identified students taught in ability groups in reading and mathematics. Progress is monitored on a regular basis and instruction adjusted as needed.

Middle School
TAG identified students are place in appropriated course and classrooms. Instruction is delivered by ability level.

High School
Instruction at the 9th grade includes math instruction according to level. TAG students in the 9th grade English block continue to access optional materials and assignments based on rate and level. Students in grades 10-12 select from Advanced Placement and advanced courses. Differentiation continues to be stressed in teacher training Literacy and Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) strategies have been implemented in many content areas to provide instruction with different learning styles

Contact
Brian Wood, Principal at Ewing Young Elementary and District TAG Coordinator
503-554-4754