The Duke University Talent Identification Program McAllen ISD Advanced Academics

A self-supporting, non-profit, educational organization dedicated to the identification and support of academically gifted students. Arm-in-arm with schools and families, Duke TIP works to identify talented young people and to provide them with a wide array of fulfilling educational opportunities from 4 th grade through 12 th. Founded in 1980, over 2 million students have participated in the Duke TIP Talent Searches. What is Duke TIP?

Duke TIP offers a 4 th /5 th Grade Talent Search, as well as a 7 th Grade Talent Search. Duke TIP understands that gifted students need special motivation and support. As such, the Talent Searches work to provide: Above-level testing and appropriate assessment measures Access to Duke TIP’s network of educational programs and resources Motivation and encouragement for students focused on academic achievement Talent Search Model

7th Grade Talent Search

Participation in the 7 th Grade Talent Search allows gifted students to learn more about their academic abilities and get a head start on college entrance exams (SAT or ACT). Participants will have the opportunity to interact with other academically talented students and to access an array of opportunities and resources. Those students who qualify will also be invited to attend recognition ceremonies and/or Duke TIP’s renowned educational programs. Participation is Rewarding!

Students eligible to participate in the 7 th Grade Talent Search include: Current 7th graders (or 8 th graders who skipped 7 th grade during the current year) Students who scored in the 95 th percentile or higher on a grade-level achievement test or state criterion-reference test Students who live or attend school in our 16 state region Eligibility is an Honor!

Talent Search Regions

7 th Grade Talent Search Benefits Above-Level Testing. Taking the ACT or SAT as a 7 th grader imparts knowledge and experience that is invaluable. Students will gain insight into their academic abilities and have the opportunity to preview the same test they will take during the college admission process. Ability to Compare Scores. The Results Summary allows families a more comprehensive understanding of scores by comparing students ’ performance relative to other 7th graders throughout the 16-state region and providing helpful suggestions for educational planning.

7 th Grade Talent Search Benefits Recognition. In addition to receiving a Certificate of Merit recognizing participation, students who receive outstanding scores will be honored. Educational Opportunity Guide Online. This searchable online directory lists quality schools and summer programs that all Talent Search participants are eligible to attend.

7 th Grade Talent Search Benefits Helpful Resources. Students receive information on gifted student educational development and college planning through their 10 th grade year. Duke TIP staff can provide educational guidance for families at any time. Duke Gifted Letter. An online newsletter for parents, DGL provides practical tools, inspiration, answers to pressing questions and review of educational research. Access to Educational Programs. Exceptional scores on the SAT or ACT will earn some students invitations to Duke TIP ’ s renowned programs (whether site-based or online). In some cases, weekend programs open to all Talent Search participants may be offered in your area.

Enrollment is Easy For expedited processing, register online at Or mail paper application to Duke TIP office Talent Search fee (if ACT is chosen): $73 Talent Search fee (if SAT is chosen): $73

Financial Aid is available Talent Search Fee Grants offset the cost of participation for students who qualify for free or reduced lunch in their school $2.4 million was awarded in 2009 across all Duke TIP programs

n Grades 7-10 n Weekend-long enrichment courses during the academic year n Courses include topics such as: alternative fuels, astronomy, creative writing, politics and the media, photography, and poetry n Sites n Duke University – Durham n Appalachian State University – Boone n New College – Sarasota n Texas Christian University – Ft. Worth n University of Kansas – Lawrence n University of Houston – Houston n University of South Carolina – Columbia n University of Georgia – Athens Scholar Weekend Programs

e-Studies Online Courses Grades 8-12 Advanced high-school and college-level courses delivered in a teacher-moderated, internet-based classroom Highly interactive: students connect with other gifted students and with their Duke TIP instructor through live chats, discussion boards, blogs, Flexible – students typically do not have to be online at a particular time to participate 7-week program in summer (10-14 hrs/week) 16-week programs in fall and spring (5-10 hrs/week)

Summer Studies Programs Grades 7-10 Three-week summer residential programs Campuses located at Duke University, Davidson College, Appalachian State University, University of Kansas, Duke Marine Lab, Texas A&M, Trinity University, University of Georgia. * Students must meet qualification criteria

Summer Studies Programs Fast-paced, rigorous and above-grade-level innovative curricula Expert instructors with zeal for their subject area Experiential learning methodology Environment that promotes academic and social growth

Field Studies & Institutes Grades 9-12 Two-week program Domestic & International programs Academic experience in a unique setting Creative Writing – Ghost Ranch, New Mexico War, Children and International Justice – Duke University and The Hague Business Leadership – Belize Archeology and Anthropology – North Carolina and Peru

Independent Learning resources Grades 4-12 For self-paced, at-home or at-school enrichment No qualifying criteria Students work with a local mentor Families or schools can order online or by phone

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation The Next Generation Venture Fund – Goldman Sachs Foundation Academically talented youth who are economically disadvantaged and from diverse backgrounds 8 th grade through high school Provides resources and educational planning Selective colleges and universities Competitive professional environments Scholarships

Contact your Middle School Counselor for 7 th Grade for more information. Calendar of events: October 6, 2012 – Duke TIP Applications due in counselors office – SAT or ACT 11/7/2012 Campus SAT and ACT Practice Sessions – Cost is $35 for 10 days and packet 11/13/2012 or 11/15/2012 SAT or ACT Mock Test 12/1/2012 SAT Exam – 5 hours 12/8/2012 ACT Exam – 5 hours

Duke History Results In McAllen ISD – 547 students qualified to participate in the Duke Talent Identification Program. 200 Students took the ACT or SAT Exam 14 Students performed at a level that was at the National or State level.