Frequently Asked Questions
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1. What are the requirements for applying and how are students selected?
All students must submit a completed application packet which consists of the following:
- The student's rank on a "Nationally Norm-Referenced Test" which must be at or above the 85th percentile, or the student must obtain a proficiency with distinction score (4) in reading, math, writing or English/language arts.
- The student's 2006-2007 report card. The first quarter/first trimester report card for the 2007-2008 when it becomes available.
- A Teacher's recommendation of the student. Preferably a teacher from the 2006-2007 school year.
- A completed Parent Nomination/Observations form.
- A completed Student Self-Inventory form.
2. What is a "nationally norm-referenced test?"
A nationally norm-referenced test compares one child’s skills to those of similarly aged students across the nation. For example, here in Providence, most of our students take the Stanford Achievement Test Series, Tenth Edition, or "SAT 10" nationally norm-referenced test each year. Some other examples of nationally norm-referenced tests are: California Achievement Tests (CAT), Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills (CTBS), Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS), and Metropolitan Achievement Test (MAT).
3. What if a student does not qualify based on the 85th percentile testing requirement. Is there an appeals process?
Yes, your child may take an alternative test:
--if you feel your child did not test well because of a cultural barrier or because his or her first language is not English,
OR
--if your child has consistently received grades of A’s and B’s, but did not do well on the norm-referenced test.
Your child can take this alternative test at Greene Middle School, 721 Chalkstone Avenue, on the following dates:
- Saturday, October 27, 2007 at 9am or 11am
- Monday, October 29, 2007 at 4:30 pm
Download the Application Form for Alternative Testing here.
Call the Office of Advanced Academic Programs for more information on this alternative test at 401-456-9286.
4. What if I don't have my child's report cards or test scores?
You can call or visit your child’s school and request a copy.
5. Should I send all the forms together?
Yes, please complete all forms and send them together in one mailing to:
Providence School Department
Office of Advanced Academic Programs
797 Westminster Street
Providence, RI 02903
6. What is the deadline?
Completed application packets must be received by the Office of Advanced Academic Programs no later than 4:30pm on Friday, October 19, 2007.
7. When will I be notified if my child has been accepted?
Families will be notified by Friday, January 4, 2008.
8. Will my child be eligible for transportation?
To the extent possible, bus transportation will be provided at no cost for students who live outside their attendance and walking distance area and are accepted into the Advanced Academic Program. Parents will be notified of eligibility by the Providence School Department Transportation Office.
8. What if I have a question that is not answered here?
Call the Office of Advanced Academic Programs for more information at 401-456-9286.
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