[NativeMom]

I was hoping to hear from some moms whose kids have taken the EXPLORE test and another of the required tests for admission to the Davidson Young Scholars program.

DD took the test in Feb. and met the minimum criterion for that test. However, she has not had any of the further IQ testing they require for admission. I checked locally (the closest is an hour away) and the fee is $1200, which is really a stretch for us right now. However, if it would be worthwhile, we would do it.

The short story is that we live in a rural area with limited educational resources. She is in PS now, but we homeschooled in the past and will be coming back to it next year.

I don't have personal experience with the Davidson program, but from what I can find it looks as though it may offer her educational and social opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable for her.

Advice from mom's who've been there???

Thanks.

 

[tarasam]

Where do you live? I'm in a high COL area, and the IQ test itself was $500 and the IQ + achievement test together were $750. (My kid isn't in school so I didn't have the option of school-funded testing.)

I first looked at so-called gifted test centers, and was told "$2000 and an 18 month wait list." So then I started searching for educational psychologists in my area. If you can't find one locally, talk to the educational psych in your school district and see if s/he knows anyone or would be willing to administer an IQ test outside of school. I ended up with an educational psych in private practice, but who had spent 20+ years working for a great local school district. She didn't specialize in gifted kids but was an expert at test administration and did a fantastic job with our son during the testing, and also for the report that she wrote to accompany the scores. We had testing done specifically for DYS admission--if you have questions, PM me.

Tara

 

[carmel23]

I believe that there is or was a portfolio option for folks who couldn't afford the testing and had no other options. I would phone the davidson folks and see what they say.

Our school district will pay for the testing or have a school psychologist administer the test if you qualify for free/reduced lunch. The score is used for the gifted magnet program, but could also be used for Davidson, etc.

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tarasam Where do you live? I'm in a high COL area, and the IQ test itself was $500 and the IQ + achievement test together were $750. (My kid isn't in school so I didn't have the option of school-funded testing.) I first looked at so-called gifted test centers, and was told "$2000 and an 18 month wait list." So then I started searching for educational psychologists in my area. If you can't find one locally, talk to the educational psych in your school district and see if s/he knows anyone or would be willing to administer an IQ test outside of school. I ended up with an educational psych in private practice, but who had spent 20+ years working for a great local school district. She didn't specialize in gifted kids but was an expert at test administration and did a fantastic job with our son during the testing, and also for the report that she wrote to accompany the scores. We had testing done specifically for DYS admission--if you have questions, PM me. Tara

Thanks so much for the help. I hadn't thought of checking with the school since we've never gotten any other services from them. I don't think we'll qualify for school testing, but your suggestion to ask for recommendations is great, and exactly what I was looking for.

The person who gave us the $1200 quote is on the list of Davidson's experts (don't know if that's the right word) and is about an hour away. I saw him give a talk last year and connected with him at that event, but haven't followed up.

Also, we're near 2 universities. How would I find out if any of their faculty would do such testing? My husband is a prof at a small school, but it's psych dept. is only 3 or 4 people.

It's funny, we don't live in a high COL area, but because we're in a somewhat rural area, certain things seem to be much higher than other, more urban places I've lived.

Thanks again.

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by carmel23 I believe that there is or was a portfolio option for folks who couldn't afford the testing and had no other options. I would phone the davidson folks and see what they say. Our school district will pay for the testing or have a school psychologist administer the test if you qualify for free/reduced lunch. The score is used for the gifted magnet program, but could also be used for Davidson, etc.

Thanks so much for the tip about the school and free/reduced lunch. Although I qualified as a kid, our family now does not, but I will certainly check with them to see what other options/recommendations they may have. I better hurry though; school will be out in a few weeks.

And thanks for the tip about the portfolio. I saw that, but honestly it scared me. I have no idea what I would include

 

[ChristaN]

Where we live, the schools will administer group ability tests like the CogAT, but absolutely will not administer an IQ tests unless severe disabilities are suspected (very low IQ, not just learning disabilities). At least that's what I've been told. We've had to pay privately for all testing we've had done.

My understanding from people whose kids are in the DYS program is that it is worthwhile, so I'd certainly pursue it if your dd's EXPLORE scores are high enough. I would probably start with giving Davidson a call or sending an email and seeing what they think given your circumstances (location, cost of testing, etc.)

 

[tarasam]

Call the chairs of the psych departments at the nearby universities and see if they know any educational psychologists (whether affiliated with the university or not) who are experienced testers. Then find out which tests they usually administer, how often, etc. Get a feel for their practice and experience, which will help you decide if they would be a good fit.

We did not use anyone on the DYS list.

Tara

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChristaN Where we live, the schools will administer group ability tests like the CogAT, but absolutely will not administer an IQ tests unless severe disabilities are suspected (very low IQ, not just learning disabilities). At least that's what I've been told. We've had to pay privately for all testing we've had done. My understanding from people whose kids are in the DYS program is that it is worthwhile, so I'd certainly pursue it if your dd's EXPLORE scores are high enough. I would probably start with giving Davidson a call or sending an email and seeing what they think given your circumstances (location, cost of testing, etc.)

ChristaN,
Thanks for the information about school testing--and for reminding me to check back with them

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tarasam Call the chairs of the psych departments at the nearby universities and see if they know any educational psychologists (whether affiliated with the university or not) who are experienced testers. Then find out which tests they usually administer, how often, etc. Get a feel for their practice and experience, which will help you decide if they would be a good fit. We did not use anyone on the DYS list. Tara

Tara,

Thanks for the suggestion. Previously, I checked with one of the psych depts. and they only had one educational psychologist who administered the needed tests. However, we did not feel like he was a good fit.

It's good to know that you successfully used someone not on the list.

Thanks!

 

[SleeplessMommy]

I would start with asking the local school system for names... I know several psych who work part time for the school system, part time teaching at a University. They would be well qualified to administer that type of test.

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by SleeplessMommy I would start with asking the local school system for names... I know several psych who work part time for the school system, part time teaching at a University. They would be well qualified to administer that type of test.

SleeplessMommy,

First, I have to say that I love your name!

Second, thanks for the suggestion. Based on your advice, I just emailed the school. I hate to say that I don't have high hopes about their level of information. I was really surprised when I talked to the guidance counselor about the Explore test and she said that they had never had another kid at the school even take it (the school opened 6 years ago). That seems odd to me, but maybe I have unrealistic expectations???

Thanks again!!!

 

[mom2ponygirl]

Quote:

Originally Posted by NativeMom I was really surprised when I talked to the guidance counselor about the Explore test and she said that they had never had another kid at the school even take it (the school opened 6 years ago). That seems odd to me, but maybe I have unrealistic expectations???

This sounds like where I live! LOL
Anyway, we found our tester via a gifted homeschool list. It was a 5 hour drive but only $300 for testing. However, after going through that I found a list of reasonably priced testers just 2 hours away. A friend passed on some literature from a gifted school in the city just 2 hours from us and it included a list of recommended places to test and their approximate cost. So, if I were you, I would look for any private gifted schools in any metropolitan areas within a reasonable distance. Ask them for recommendations for where to test.

Davidson's has been great for us, but they didn't have many testing resource info for our area either. So, just because they haven't found them doesn't mean they aren't around. Luckily, your footwork may help others later! We only have a couple DYS'ers in our state so they just didn't have much to go on here.

Good luck!

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mom2ponygirl This sounds like where I live! LOL Anyway, we found our tester via a gifted homeschool list. It was a 5 hour drive but only $300 for testing. However, after going through that I found a list of reasonably priced testers just 2 hours away. A friend passed on some literature from a gifted school in the city just 2 hours from us and it included a list of recommended places to test and their approximate cost. So, if I were you, I would look for any private gifted schools in any metropolitan areas within a reasonable distance. Ask them for recommendations for where to test. Davidson's has been great for us, but they didn't have many testing resource info for our area either. So, just because they haven't found them doesn't mean they aren't around. Luckily, your footwork may help others later! We only have a couple DYS'ers in our state so they just didn't have much to go on here. Good luck!

Whew! That makes me feel better (that I'm not the only one)

I have not checked into homeschool lists, but should do that. Thanks for the idea. And thanks for the tip to check gifted schools. I know there's not one within 2 hours, but perhaps there is further out; it's worth checking into.

I'd love to hear more about your statement "Davidson's has been great for us." I'm still really unclear as to what the DYS program actually does. I have been hearing great things about it (online) for years, ever since I read Genius Denied. I'm just hoping to find others to talk to who have kids like mine, and for dd to have opportunities that are non-existent where we live.

A few years ago, we drove 5 hours roundtrip on weekends for her to attend a gifted weekend program. It was the first time she felt comfortable answering questions and being part of the group.

Just as an aside, last year at her ps (the first year they actually tested for gifted) when I asked about putting her in groups or classes with other kids like her, the teacher told me "There are no other kids like her." That was eye opening for me, and sad too, based on many experiences she's had in ps. However, I'll save that for another post another time.

I REALLY am very appreciative of all of the help each of you has given me. Thanks so much!

 

[SleeplessMommy]

Have you looked at CTY? When she gets to high school age they have great summer programs. It look like there are some online options for younger kids.

http://cty.jhu.edu/

 

[mom2ponygirl]

Quote:

Originally Posted by NativeMom I'd love to hear more about your statement "Davidson's has been great for us." I'm still really unclear as to what the DYS program actually does. I have been hearing great things about it (online) for years, ever since I read Genius Denied. I'm just hoping to find others to talk to who have kids like mine, and for dd to have opportunities that are non-existent where we live.

I like that the Davidson young scholar program doesn't make any demands on us (beyond annual updates) or tells us what to do with our kid. They are there as a resource, give advice if asked, help hunt down resources if asked, etc. I like the Davidson email lists. It is a nice safe place to talk about what your kid(s) is doing without anyone thinking you are nuts. It is a safe place to ask some real out of the box questions when you are trying to find the right school situation for your kid. It is reassuring to hear stories of other families of pg kids who have made everything work from staying at grade level in school with great enrichment to radically accelerating to very early college to homeschooling and finding all sorts of different paths. It has made me more confident about listening to our dd and going with my instinct on what is right for her and for our situation. It helped me see that pg kids come in many different packages - from the passionate world changers to the quiet dreamers, from the intensely sensitive to the laid-back background blending type.

My dd has enjoyed many online colloquia with experts in various fields. She enjoyed going to a gathering of YS'ers. She has always had a pretty easy time making friends, but I was floored by the ease and quickness she found several instant best buddies. At home she has generally had several sets of friends - the age mates she plays pretend with and older kids she talks with about books and ideas. Among other young scholars, she immediately found several age mates that 'got' her. She and one girl spent days on end in constant conversation. I would walk behind with the other girl's mom and we were just amazed at how they never tired of each other. We literally spent several days of 10-12 hours straight together!

I like the support of our family consultant. Someone to share small victories with, and someone to try and help with resources. We are not a wealthy family and although we haven't had to apply to Davidson for financial aid, it is nice to know we might have that resource should we need it in the future. Similarly, we homeschool right now, but are trying a return to part-time school in the fall. I'm glad to know that my family consultant is there should I need help advocating with the school.

Are they indispensable? No, not for us. But, I really like the organization and I am glad we applied. Perhaps we will never utilize much of the available resources, but it is nice to know you might have some help if needed.

 

[Roar]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mom2ponygirl Are they indispensable? No, not for us. But, I really like the organization and I am glad we applied. Perhaps we will never utilize much of the available resources, but it is nice to know you might have some help if needed.

I agree with your whole post. It is reassuring to know that they are there and that how we participate is up to us. It depends a lot on the individual circumstances of the family, but I'm always aware that with PG kids schooling decisions can change rapidly because what works one year may not work the next. It is helpful to have the sounding board of a family consultant and the support of other families on email lists. It is a kind and supportive bunch. Also, we've received some financial help toward classes.

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by SleeplessMommy Have you looked at CTY? When she gets to high school age they have great summer programs. It look like there are some online options for younger kids. http://cty.jhu.edu/

I haven't looked at that site in a few years. Thanks for reminding me! I've written it down on my list.

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mom2ponygirl I like that the Davidson young scholar program doesn't make any demands on us (beyond annual updates) or tells us what to do with our kid. They are there as a resource, give advice if asked, help hunt down resources if asked, etc. I like the Davidson email lists. It is a nice safe place to talk about what your kid(s) is doing without anyone thinking you are nuts. It is a safe place to ask some real out of the box questions when you are trying to find the right school situation for your kid. It is reassuring to hear stories of other families of pg kids who have made everything work from staying at grade level in school with great enrichment to radically accelerating to very early college to homeschooling and finding all sorts of different paths. It has made me more confident about listening to our dd and going with my instinct on what is right for her and for our situation. It helped me see that pg kids come in many different packages - from the passionate world changers to the quiet dreamers, from the intensely sensitive to the laid-back background blending type. My dd has enjoyed many online colloquia with experts in various fields. She enjoyed going to a gathering of YS'ers. She has always had a pretty easy time making friends, but I was floored by the ease and quickness she found several instant best buddies. At home she has generally had several sets of friends - the age mates she plays pretend with and older kids she talks with about books and ideas. Among other young scholars, she immediately found several age mates that 'got' her. She and one girl spent days on end in constant conversation. I would walk behind with the other girl's mom and we were just amazed at how they never tired of each other. We literally spent several days of 10-12 hours straight together!

Thanks so much. Your experience is encouraging to say the least!!!

I really appreciate the time you put in to making such a thoughtful post and whenever we finally apply, I hope to have similar experiences to share.

Take care,
Angela

 

[NativeMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Roar I agree with your whole post. It is reassuring to know that they are there and that how we participate is up to us. It depends a lot on the individual circumstances of the family, but I'm always aware that with PG kids schooling decisions can change rapidly because what works one year may not work the next. It is helpful to have the sounding board of a family consultant and the support of other families on email lists. It is a kind and supportive bunch. Also, we've received some financial help toward classes.

Roar, it's good to hear from someone else who understands the quickly changing landscape of educational needs for pg kids. I don't know anyone who lives near me with the same challenges. I know it doesn't matter, but I suspect that most parents and school staff here think . . . . Hmmm. I don't know what they think. I just know that they don't understand.