Gifted Education at Hill Country Arts Academy

In April, students undergo assessment through the ITBS test and the CoGAT. HCAA students in the second grade and higher are tested during this period. New students have the option to join the April testing, arrange a private session, or provide results from the ITBS, TerraNova, or Stanford Achievement Test taken within the last year. A testing fee of $50.00 applies to non-HCAA students. For accelerated instruction, a student may be recommended by a teacher or parent, with placement determined by a personal interview, screening outcomes, and faculty assessments. 

Students chosen for the gifted program will receive extra enrichment and engage in specialized projects beyond their standard coursework. The gifted enrichment class will be included as one of the elective options for students. Additionally, their regular classroom assignments will be tailored to accommodate their advanced educational requirements.

Advanced Academic Placement Program Process 

The Advanced Academic Placement Program offers a stimulating and challenging environment tailored to the needs of exceptional students. Designed to enrich their academic journey, this program provides an opportunity for students to engage deeply with subjects that excite them. 
Selection Criteria Admission into the program is determined through a comprehensive evaluation process that considers the following factors: 

• Cognitive Ability Testing: Assessment of cognitive skills, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking through specialized tests. 
• Standardized Testing: Performance on standardized tests designed to measure academic aptitude and potential.
• Previous Academic Work: Review of past academic achievements and records to assess consistency and excellence. 
• Teacher Observations and Recommendations: Input from teachers based on classroom performance, behavior, and overall potential for success in an advanced academic setting. 
• Student Interviews: Personal interviews with students to understand their motivations, interests, and readiness for the program. 

Program Structure Students may be selected for: 

• Single Subjects: Participation in advanced coursework for specific subjects where they demonstrate exceptional ability. 
• Full Program: Enrollment in a comprehensive curriculum covering multiple advanced subjects.
• Specialized Enrichment Programs and Classes: Participation in unique enrichment programs and specialized classes designed to further enhance their learning experiences and develop their talents.

Please note that applying to the Advanced Academic Placement Program does not guarantee acceptance. Our goal is to ensure that selected students are well-suited for and can benefit from the challenges and opportunities the program offers. 
We encourage all interested students to apply and showcase their academic passion and potential!