This might be a dumb question...what's AIG? My son is in 2nd at West View, but don't know what that means!
Usually, they don't test the kids for AIG until after they've taken their IQ tests in 2nd grade (I think it's called the Otis-Lennon test...technically, they don't call it an IQ test, but that's what it is). If they get in, one day a week the kids go to Smithfield for more enhanced education...my kids loved it. Really, all it is is what school used to be when we were kids...the teachers get to be creative and flexible and fun and they don't have to 'teach to a test' like they do with all the standardized stuff the kids do now. I think that if teachers were given that kind of time and flexibility, they'd have more people staying in the classroom instead of quitting for another field or moving out and going to 'administration'.
The percentage is very low. Would there be a specific reason on why you are inquiring about this information?
I agree with you on that. My daughter says AIG is one of her only reasons for living. A little dramatic, but it definitely helps her to do better.
Almost the entire class is AIG in both my sons 5th grade classes at Dixon Road. Was last year and the year before too. But they never went to Smithfield for any reason. I personally think its a label that shouldn't be used at this young of an age. Just my opinion.
Unless things have changed in the last few years, a child has to be labeled gifted in both reading and math to get pulled for the AIG center.
Students are given the Otis-Lennon test and a Pretest in 3rd grade. Based on the scores, they are designated as AIG. Only students who are AIG in reading and math at an level ABOVE the 96% (in both) qualify to go to the center. Each school has one day per week to go to the center. (I think it's four schools each day.) Other AIG students are served at their school in clustered classroom groups. If a child appears to be well above their peers in earlier grades (or after third grade if they did not qualify/are new to Johnston County), testing can be requested. This testing is done by the school's AIG coordinator (the acronym is TISS, but I do not remember what it stands for). Students who are AIG must be taught by an AIG licensed teacher. It is an actual certification by the state. These teachers have learned how to differentiate to meet the needs of students who are performing well above grade level so they do not get bored. That is why a classroom can be filled with students who are AIG.
Anyone have anything to add about CES & AIG students? Our son might be AIG but we have no way of knowing yet... I would like him to be tested asap. He's reading already and he's only in K. I guess I need to push to have his reading skills tested now.
I don't think they will test that early, DS was tested in 2nd grade at the teachers request. I think 1st grade is the earliest, but I could be wrong.
My oldest daughter's first grade teacher told us she should be tested the next year but that she did not like to see such little kids go off on that big bus with the older kids. At that time, I think there was only one first grader going from CES. My younger daughter is in second grade and she had one child from her class go last year from West View. So I guess it depends on the teacher recognizing the child's skills and the degree to which the parents get involved as to when they test for it. I think that it is a great opportunity for the child. The electives are always so interesting.
Our DD had finished the entire kindergarten curriculum by Oct. 1. They still would not test her for AIG. Instead, her teacher gave her extra work each week to "keep her busy." (LONG STORY ABOUT THIS!) Anyway, she was tested in first grade. She reads on a fifth grade level, writes on a fourth grade level, and is doing math on 4/5 grade level. The AIG center is a godsend. She was the only first grader on the bus, but it wasn't a problem. She sat in an assigned seat with second graders. (She is now in second grade.)
Our daughter attended classes onsite last year at West Clayton elem when she was in the 3rd grade. We kind of snicker at it because from Kindergarten to 2nd grade she was in Wake county. When she left 2nd grade, she could barely read a dr seuss book! Third grade she was placed at West Clayton and was accepted into AIG! (Go Johnston county!) The schools here are alot better imho. She's at Cooper this year and bought home paperwork for AIG. Its been a godsend to us too! Love it.
So, do ya'll think that most teachers would inform a parent if they feel the child is ready(for those of you who have kids in AIG)??? Just wondering what experiences you've had.
Yes, you can ask, but the teacher will generally let you know if they think the child has AIG potential. In my opinion, it's better for the request to come from their teacher, as they are bit more unbiased than us parents, LOL. We all think our little Johnny or Susie is ahead of the curve.
