Contact the administration or academic office of your child's private school to express your interest in having them tested for the Gifted Program in the York Region District School Board (YRDSB). Inquire about any procedures or requirements they may have for children attending private schools who wish to participate in the YRDSB's gifted program.
Step 2: Determine Eligibility for Testing
The YRDSB's Gifted Program is open to students who reside within the York Region and attend a school within the YRDSB jurisdiction. Since your child attends a private school, they may need to meet additional criteria to be eligible for gifted program testing.
Contact the Special Education Department of the YRDSB to inquire about the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for children from private schools. They can provide you with information on any assessments, tests, or academic records that may be required.
Step 3: Register for Gifted Program Testing
Once you have confirmed your child's eligibility, you can proceed with registering them for the gifted program testing. The YRDSB typically conducts gifted program testing in the fall of each school year. Contact the Special Education Department to obtain the necessary forms and information.
Step 4: Prepare Your Child for Testing
In some cases, private school students may need additional preparation or support to become familiar with the testing format used by the YRDSB. You can discuss with the Special Education Department whether any resources or practice materials are available. Additionally, you can encourage your child to get adequate rest and have a nutritious breakfast on the day of the test.
Step 5: Attend Testing and Receive Results
On the scheduled testing day, ensure that your child arrives at the designated location on time. The test may include a combination of cognitive assessments and an interview. The results of the testing are typically provided within a few weeks.
Step 6: Discuss Placement with the YRDSB
If your child's test results indicate that they qualify for the gifted program, you will be contacted by the YRDSB to discuss placement options. They will provide information about the available gifted programs and how to enroll your child if appropriate.
Step 7: Review Private School's Policies on External Programs
While your child may be eligible for the YRDSB's Gifted Program, it's important to note that private schools have varying policies regarding students' participation in external programs. Verify with your child's school their stance on external programs, any restrictions or limitations they might have, and how such participation might impact your child's current studies or enrollment at the private school.
Remember to maintain open communication with both your child's private school and the YRDSB's Special Education Department throughout the process to ensure a smooth and coordinated effort in supporting your child's educational needs and opportunities.