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The DOE has just released its long-awaited proposal for reforms to admission processes for the city's gifted and talented programs, and parents have until Nov. 25 to comment on the proposal. The goal of the proposed changes, according to the DOE, is to "expand access to gifted programs and create a single, rigorous standard—based on national norms—for 'giftedness.'" You can take a look at the DOE's slideshow about the changes, but here are the highlights:

• All students will be tested for G+T at their schools, not at off-site testing centers.
• Evaluations will continue to be based on two assessments (as they were last year for the first time). Children will continue to take the OLSAT. The Gifted Rating Scale will be replaced by something called the Bracken School Readiness Assessment, which the DOE says is "easier to administer in schools to many children."
  
• Children who take both tests will be given a composite score (75 percent OLSAT, 25 percent BSRA). Any child whose scores place him in the 95th percentile nationally will be guaranteed a slot in a gifted program in his district. Children whose scores are in the 97th percentile will be able to apply to the three citywide gifted schools: TAG, HunterAnderson, and NEST.
• Families will rank their choices from among the district and citywide options.
• OSEPO will place students. Parents will know whether their child is guaranteed a G+T slot by March 31 and will get their placement offers by May 31.

To make the process even more equitable, beginning in 2008, all students -- not just those whose parents request an evaluation -- will be tested for G+T eligibility.

The DOE says it also plans to enhance the quality of instruction in self-contained G+T programs citywide -- quality, like admissions procedures, has varied from district to district -- and to expand enrichment opportunities for all students, not just those whose scores qualify for G+T programs.

Parents undoubtedly have thoughts and concerns about the proposal. Attend a Town Hall meeting in your borough to learn more and give your feedback; the first meeting is Nov. 5 in Manhattan. See the Insideschools calendar for more dates. Through Nov. 25, you can also submit feedback This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone at 212-374-5219..And be sure to post your feedback in the comments -- we're very interested to hear what parents think of the proposed changes!