Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions 
of students and parents.

1. How does my child get tested for TAG?
2. When is the referral window?
3. Who may refer students for TAG testing?
4. How can I get a referral packet?
5. What does TAG look like at Purple Sage?
6. How is TAG math different from the regular classroom math?
7. Will my student participate in an Independent Study Project (ISP)?
8. Where can I find more information about GT Services in Round Rock?

How does my child get tested for TAG?

Students are referred for TAG testing during a referral window in 
the fall. Testing occurs in late January to early February, and a 
decision is made in late spring about an appropriate placement. 
TAG services begin, for those who qualify, the next school year.

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When is the referral window?

The window opens Monday, November 16 and closes Friday, December 
4th.  No late referrals will be accepted.

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Who may refer students for TAG testing?

A parent or a teacher may refer a student for testing; it is not 
necessary for both parent and teacher to do so. Please talk to 
your child's teacher about your interest in testing your child 
for TAG.

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How can I get a referral packet?

Packets, in English or Spanish, may be downloaded and printed 
from the district website (Academics, Gifted and Advanced 
Academic Services, Gifted Services, Identification, Referral 
Packet 09-10). If you do not have the ability to print from the 
website, a limited number of referral packets, in English or 
Spanish, are available in the front office.

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What does TAG look like at Purple Sage?

Students in kindergarten receive whole-class enrichment lessons 
from the TAG teacher once a month.  Identified students in grades 
1 and 2 primarily receive services through their TAG-certified 
regular classroom teacher, along with a once-a-week pull-out by 
the TAG specialist.  TAG students in grades 3-5 begin daily 
classes in language arts and/or math, depending on the area of 
identification, from the TAG Specialist.  They may also receive 
additional enrichment in the areas of science and/or social 
studies through their TAG-certified regular-classroom teacher.

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How is TAG math different from the regular classroom math?

The TAG math curriculum compacts TEKS in grades 3-8 into grades 3-
6.  In 3rd grade, students compact 3rd and learn most of 4th 
grade math.  In 4th grade, students will compact any remaining 
4th grade skills while learning 5th grade math.  In grade 5, 
students learn 6th and part of 7th grade math.  By middle school, 
students either advance to an Accelerated Math (compacting 
6th and learning all of 7th grade math) or 6th grade TAG Math 
(other half of 7th and all of 8th grade math). The math 
curriculum has a heavy emphasis on critical thinking and problem 
solving.

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Will my student participate in an Independent Study Project (ISP)?

All TAG students are required to participate in at least one 
independent study project (in their area of strength) per year.  
Students not identified by the TAG program, with teacher 
recommendation, may also have the opportunity to participate in 
the spring ISPs. Projects will begin in late January/early 
February. Students will be asked to follow a timeline. A showcase 
of all ISPs will happen in May.

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Where can I find more information about GT Services in Round Rock?

The district website is a great source of additional 
information.  Under Academics, find Gifted and Advances Academic 
Services, then Gifted Services.

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