Identification and selection for the Tessera Program is a two-year process. By providing a variety of activities and screening tools over time, the goal is to give all potentially gifted students several opportunities to show their true giftedness.  The Tessera Program uses the Raven as the initial first grade screening instrument for several reasons.  The Raven is a group test so every first grader can be screened giving all a chance.  The Raven has been extensively normed.  It is fun for the children to do and keeps their interest.  It is the most culture-free group test that has been developed to this date, giving equal opportunity to children who may speak English as a second language or for those who may come from disadvantaged homes.  It is especially important to know that the Raven test may miss some highly capable students, particularly those whose intellectual abilities are in the areas of language and reading rather than visual-spatial reasoning.  However, next year as second graders, students will have another opportunity to show their knowledge and talents through NET lessons and another screening process.

After first grade students are tested in the spring with the Raven Progressive Matrices, the tests will be scored.  Tessera program staff will report back to the school as soon as possible the names of students who scored in the top 3% (a score of 30 and above) on the Raven.  Then to begin the two-year identification process for those students, first grade teachers will be asked to fill out a staff information form for each potentially gifted child. Once this form is completed by the first grade teacher, and is sent back to Libby Center, a file will be set up and maintained on those students.

The next school year, when students are in second grade, Tessera teachers will come to each elementary school to teach a series of eight thinking skills lessons to all second graders.  Again, those students who demonstrate potential giftedness in the NET lessons will be referred for further assessment.  At this time, potentially gifted students who scored 30 or above on the Raven and students who demonstrated potential giftedness in the NET lessons will be given the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) as second graders.  Results from the CogAT testing are finalized in June at the end of the student's second grade year.

Finally, children who remain in the top 3% after the parent and teacher information forms have been combined with the initial Raven, NET, and CogAT scores, qualify for Tessera.  Students must have at least two high test scores to qualify for the program.  All of the scores and information listed above are added to a scoring matrix to determine qualification for Tessera.  Parents are notified of screening results in early September following the second grade year.  Tessera begins the third week in September for third grade students.

For further information, you are welcome to call Libby Center (509) 354-7500.