Identification Process FAQ

LWSD is using a two-step identification process. First, each student’s academic data is reviewed. If more information is needed to determine eligibility, the CogAT may be administered. There is no longer a single test used to identify students who need Highly Capable services. Not all students in universal screening years or who have been referred will require additional testing (such as the CogAT) for a determination to be made.

Last year, students in universal screening grades were all provided the full CogAT assessment. This year, the CogAT will only be provided to students who may need to take some or certain sections of the CogAT. This will be determined by the MPC. The CogAT is used only when additional data is necessary to complete a student’s body of evidence for the purposes of identification.

In past years, families received multiple notifications about CogAT testing, which led to significant confusion and added workload for schools and staff. Many families believed testing had already occurred or that results were available before reviews were complete. Others expressed concern about when or where testing would take place, or why their child was or was not considered for a particular service. This diverted time and resources away from completing the identification process itself.

To reduce confusion and improve consistency, the process has been simplified. Families provide permission to assess via the referral or universal screening process, so additional consent or notification is no longer necessary. This streamlining allows staff to focus on reviewing data and ensures families receive one clear, comprehensive update once the process is complete.

The MPC reviews each student’s academic data from the 2024–25 school year and fall/winter of 2025–26, including FastBridge scores and, depending on grade level, SBA, WIDA, WaKIDS, or other assessments. If additional information is needed, the CogAT may be given, though not all students will require it. The MPC reviews data continuously between November and February, ensuring decisions reflect the most complete information. Additional testing is low-stakes and simply supplements existing academic data. Families will receive final identification decisions in March once reviews are complete.
 

Each school coordinates testing for multiple students and grade levels within the district-wide testing window (November – March). Due to scheduling logistics and capacity, neither schools nor the district can provide individual testing dates or times beyond the published testing window. Participation through universal screening or referral consent in Skyward includes acknowledgement of this process and testing timeline.

The identification process takes time for several reasons. The MPC reviews academic data throughout the fall and winter, and schools have flexibility to administer the CogAT anytime between November and February. Once all information is gathered, the MPC carefully reviews each student’s complete body of evidence. We recognize this is a lengthy process and appreciate families’ patience as we ensure each student’s profile is thoroughly and thoughtfully considered.

Every student, whether or not they take the CogAT, is reviewed using the same criteria and comprehensive process. The decision to include CogAT data is based only on whether it adds meaningful information to support identification.

The identification process is standardized and based on consistent data review. The CogAT is only given when the MPC determines it is needed. Even if a family requests the CogAT, a student’s academic data may not indicate a need for services or specific pathways to separate services. Taking the CogAT, or administering it repeatedly when not warranted, does not add meaningful value for some students. This process helps reduce unnecessary testing, minimizes stress for students and ensures that identification decisions are based on a complete and balanced body of evidence.

Final identification letters, including any relevant assessment scores, will be sent to families in March after the MPC completes its comprehensive review of all available data.