How Framingham Defines “Giftedness”

All children possess gifts and talents. Some children may be academically advanced, others may be musically inclined, while still others may excel in sports. The Framingham Public Schools defines giftedness as a combination of high academic ability, abstract thinking, and a differentiated learning style. Since the goal is for every student to maximize his/her learning potential, it becomes necessary for children who possess special needs associated with giftedness to receive modifications in the teaching/learning environment. These modifications may be handled in the classroom or through a pull-out service, dependent upon individual need. Therefore, services of the Sage Department are two-fold: an integration component and a pull-out component. (See the Massachusetts Department of Education's definition of giftedness.)

Sage Services

The pull-out component is developed in a prescriptive sense to address and support the needs of identified students. In this setting, Sage provides a differentiated program of work which is based on abstract thinking skills, independent investigation and self-help skills. Sage classes are part of the core academic program essential for proper growth and development.

The integration component not only provides for the modifications necessary for the individual needs of identified students, it also provides opportunities for thinking skill development for all students. The Sage staff serves as a resource for classroom teachers providing materials, lessons, and learning centers based on the integration of thinking skills into the grade level content.

Characteristics of “Giftedness”

The referral form provides a listing of characteristics or behaviors in three categories: critical thinking, creative thinking and style and approach to learning. When a student possesses many of these behaviors that are demonstrated on a regular basis, a referral for evaluation should be made. Documentation of specific examples will be requested.

Accessing Sage Services

Teachers as well as parents may refer a student for Sage services. The intent of the Sage assessment is as a diagnostic measure, not as an achievement standard. It is not how much a child knows or how early he/she can accomplish certain learning tasks, it is how a child goes about learning (learning style) that is assessed during the screening process. Sage pullout services are not designed to simply accelerate bright children who are capable of quick-paced learning (achievement). Its goal is to focus in on differentiation that provides the alterations or modifications necessary to address learning styles that then can result in positive learning outcomes. Underachievement, learning disabled gifted, perfectionism and social/emotional issues are at-risk behaviors that may also be addressed for some children through department services. Therefore, when no apparent need for Sage services is determined through the evaluation process, one should in no way equate this lack of need with a lack of ability.

Initiating a Referral

Teachers may request referral forms and additional information from the Sage staff member in their building. If parents would like more information about Sage services or would like to obtain referral forms, contact the Sage Department at (508) 626-9134. A referral guarantees that assessments will be done to determine if a need exists, therefore, warranting department services. Referrals do not mean that services are automatically provided. Parents may also fill out the parent referral form from this web site, print it and mail it to the Sage office along with the signed permission to screen. All parent referrals should be mailed or delivered to the Sage Department Office, c/o Walsh Middle School , 301 Brook Street, Framingham, MA 01701, to begin the referral process.

The Screening/Evaluation Process

Teacher and/or parent referrals are required to initiate the formal screening/evaluation process. The policies regarding screening/evaluation are included in the parent information packet available from the Sage office.

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