Activity: Elementary Magnet Reviews

Time: ​3 hours

Artifact: Screenshot of Google Form used to submit student applications

Description: ​Each fall, fifth graders across Washington County Public Schools take the
Cognitive Aptitude Test (CogAT). This data, combined combined with teacher
recommendations, with multiple data indicators to support them, is used to determine
what fifth graders will be invited to apply to a Magnet Middle School. After administering
the CogAT test, the Department of Advanced Programs sends letters out to students
who are invited to apply to middle school Magnet programs. Prior to students applying, I
work with their parents and the middle schools to help determine the placement that
would be best for their specific interest areas and talents. Once students have applied, it
is my job to work with teachers to complete a review that encompasses the
Slocumb-Payne Teacher Perception Inventory as well as classroom observation of
student strengths and weaknesses. Together with the classroom teacher, this is
submitted and students who are selected for Magnet Middle School placement are
notified.

Reflection: ​This process is critical in making sure that students are placed in schools
and classrooms where they will be challenged and supported in reaching their individual
potentials. During this process, I was in communication with various parents and
magnet schools as I assisted parents in determining where their child should apply.
Often times, I would reach out to multiple schools for more information on their magnet
program, relay this information back to a parent, and then contact certain schools again
with more specific questions. Through this, I help my school to develop relationships
with magnet middle schools in WCPS as well as build a foundation for the GATE
program within my building.