Gifted and Talented
Individualization Optimizes Potential
It is important to nurture potential and support gifted children as they reach for their personal best.
We create Advanced Learning Plans (ALPs) for every student who qualifies for the Gifted and Talented Program in DCSD to address their strengths, optimize growth, and help them reach their potential. At LTE we personalize for all students by removing the ceiling in all academic areas and utilize target teaching strategies which also naturally differentiates for our Gifted Learners in a beneficial integrated manner.
Jami Hawkins
- Masters in Curriculum/Instruction, Lesley University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Bachelor of Arts Elementary Education, University of Northern Colorado
- Endorsement in Gifted & Talented Education
- Principal Certification, LaMar University
My career pathway as an educator began with 14 wonderful years as a classroom teacher. As the Gifted and Talented Specialist I work with our staff to guarantee that we address the needs of our gifted students by leaning in to their passions and strengths and optimizing their potential. Analyzing data and collaborating with teachers and staff to personalize learning for all of our gifted students inspires me.
Contact me: Jami.Hawkins@dcsdk12.org
INFORMATION FOR THE 24/25 SCHOOL YEAR
DCSD is committed to implementing equitable practices to increase access to advanced/gifted learning opportunities. Based on state and national recommendations and requirements, we implement Universal Screening for students in 2nd grade (February) and 5th or 6th grade in a student's final year of elementary school (November).
6th Grade Universal Screen - As part of this process, ALL students in Grade 6 not identified for gifted programming will take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) on November 13th. This assessment indicates the level and pattern of cognitive development of a student in comparison to grade and age mates. These general reasoning abilities, which start developing at birth and continue through early adulthood, are influenced by experiences gained both in and out of school.
If your child is already identified for gifted programming, they will not participate in this universal screen testing. Your Gifted Education Facilitator will contact you directly with information about this process.
Gifted Identification Referral Testing
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If your child is in grades 3, 4, or 5 and you believe they need evaluation for Gifted Identification and Services, you may refer your child for testing by initiating the Gifted Identification Process. Testing will be the week of November 4th.
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NOTE: Requesting this assessment automatically initiates the process to evaluate for Gifted Identification.
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Request CogAT testing for your child by completing this form: Referral for Gifted Identification
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Upon receipt of this form the Gifted Education Facilitator, Jami Hawkins, will connect with you to discuss the next steps in the gifted identification process.
Resources for DCSD and LTE
DCSD Programming - This links you to information about the programs available in the Douglas County School District.
Referral Form for the gifted identification process at LTE
Parent Resources
Douglas County Association of Gifted and Talented (DCAGT)
Colorado Association of Gifted and Talented (CAGT)
National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)
Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG)