K-6 Information
In Forest Hills Public Schools, gifted testing occurs once a year in the second semester. We seek to identify students who could benefit from being placed in our gifted cluster model. Our gifted model includes:
- Placement in a gifted cluster, mixed ability classroom, where identified gifted students are “clustered” together with a teacher who has specialized training in understanding, planning for, and instructing gifted students.
- Engagement in appropriately challenging curriculum and instruction that may include enrichment, extended learning opportunities, or acceleration/compacting.
Testing is required to determine eligibility for our gifted model. FHPS students can participate in testing twice in grades K-5. A group-administered abilities assessment will be given to registered students during the school day. Parents/guardians may register their child for this testing through the following steps:
- Read the article: “Differences Between the Bright Child and the Gifted Learner.”
- Connect with your child’s classroom teacher to discuss if testing is right for your child.
- Decide whether you wish to have your child participate in testing for gifted identification.
- Complete and submit the Gifted Testing Registration Form below. This link will be available on January 12, 2026, and close at 11:59 p.m. on February 23, 2026.
- The test data will be evaluated at the end of April, and results will be mailed to families in May 2026. Students performing at the 96th percentile or at the 9th stanine on our district-approved ability assessment will be placed in the gifted cluster classroom.
K-6 Gifted Testing and the Schoolwide Cluster Grouping Model FAQ
Have Questions?
Please contact Tara Steele, tsteele@fhps.net, if you have questions. Thank you.
Gifted Cluster Family Newsletter
For past editions of the Gifted Cluster Family Newsletter, click here.
Accelerated Math 7/8 Class
In FHPS, we are committed to supporting all learners so that each child may reach their individual potential. Each of our Forest Hills middle schools offer two seventh grade math courses: Math 7 or Math 7/8.
Math 7
Math 7 develops mathematical concepts and skills in four important mathematical strands: Number and Operations, Geometry and Measurement, Data Analysis and Probability, and Algebra and Functions. Students will engage in a research-based, problem-centered learning environment to develop proficiency in both mathematical reasoning and communication. The majority of FHPS students take Math 7, preparing for Math 8 in 8th grade and Algebra 1 in high school.
Math 7/8
Math 7/8 is an accelerated course that combines the standards from Math 7 and Math 8 and prepares students for Algebra 1 in 8th grade. This class is geared for students who are willing to engage and exhibit high levels of commitment, achievement, and a passion for math. Students who qualify for Math 7/8 should have excellent study skills and the time to devote to a significantly higher workload in math outside of school.
7th-grade math placement letters are being mailed home on January 30 this year, to all 6th-grade students.
We offer a ‘second look’ process for families whose children have been placed in Math 7 but feel they would be better suited to Math 7/8. These students will be scheduled to take a standardized math assessment at their home school. This additional data will be used to support the decision. For those wanting to take the Math 7/8 test, families should register their child to take the standardized math assessment.
Registration will open Jan. 30 and close Feb. 20, 2026, at 5 p.m.
