WASL to determine whether Seattle students continue in gifted programs

Received by Newsfinder from APJul 16, 2005 15:26 Eastern Time * Editors Note SE Locals Out SEATTLE (AP) _ The stakes for taking the Washington Assessment of Student Learning are now higher for fourth-graders enrolled in Seattle Public Schools’ advanced learning programs. Starting in the 2006-2007 school year, students’ previous year’s test scores will be used to determine whether they can continue in the Spectrum or Accelerated Progress programs in middle school. APP students will need to pass both the math and reading section of the test and obtain a minimum score _ not yet set _ to continue the program in sixth grade. They will also need to show accelerated performance in reading and math in class, and have a teacher’s recommendation. Spectrum students will also need to meet a not-yet-determined threshold score in the reading or the math section of the WASL to stay in the program in sixth grade. They’ll also need to show accelerated in-class progress in that subject and have a teacher’s recommendation. National standards require students in education programs for gifted youngsters to be re-evaluated sometime before they graduate, district officials said. Without such criteria, educators say it can be difficult to return students to regular classes if their parents object. Currently, students can stay in gifted programs unless they’re failing. But Charlie Mas, whose daughter started APP in the fifth grade, says parents of students in these programs may simply exempt their children from the test. “It’s pretty much going to stop Spectrum and APP fourth-grade students from taking the WASL,” Mas said. “Why risk it? What’s to be gained?”