The Winchester Public Schools Gifted (EXCEL) program emphasizes EXcellence, Creativity, Enrichment, and Leadership. 

We are committed to identifying and supporting gifted students through equitable, inclusive practices. Gifted learners are provided differentiated instruction, enrichment, and acceleration tailored to their strengths. The plan emphasizes diversity in identification, aiming to include students from all backgrounds, including those historically underserved. Parents play a key role through advisory opportunities and regular communication. Professional development ensures teachers are equipped to meet gifted students' academic and social-emotional needs. The program spans grades K–12, offering advanced coursework, specialized support, and opportunities for independent and collaborative learning to foster growth and achievement.

WPS invites referrals for gifted identification at any point during the year. The referral must be received before the evaluation window begins. Evaluations happen during the Fall and Spring windows below:

FALL EVALUATION WINDOW: Grades 3-12 - October 21–November 8, 2024
SPRING EVALUATION WINDOW: Grades 2-12 - March 3–March 28, 2025

Download the Gifted Referral Form or contact your child's teacher.

Click here for more information on the ExCEL Evaluation process. 

If you have questions regarding the gifted program, please contact the gifted chairperson at your child's school:

• Frederick Douglass Elementary School: Joy Cusick
• Garland Quarles Elementary School: James Faint
• John Kerr Elementary School: Kathy Mathias
• Virginia Avenue Charlotte DeHart Elementary School: Devon Thompson
• Daniel Morgan Intermediate School: Emily Shafer
• Daniel Morgan Middle School: Brian Dorsey

You may also contact Sara Gardner, WPS Gifted Specialist (K-12).

2024-2025 CogAT Screening Information (2nd Grade)

During the window of January 13 - January 22, 2025, your child will be administered the online version of the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT). This is a screening measure that is administered to all WPS second grade students as part of the district-wide identification process for gifted services. Specific dates and times will be determined by each school building. Please make every effort to have your child attend during the testing weeks, paying specific attention to the testing dates and times for your child’s class.