July 1, 2004

Almaden kids score in top 3 percent in nation on Johns Hopkins Talent Search

Children in one classroom at Challenger Almaden achieved top honors in the Johns Hopkins Talent Search by scoring very high on above-grade tests. This year, eight children from Challenger have again scored among the top third of all participants nationwide—including three from one family. The award went to the top third of the top 3 percent in the nation.

In its effort to identify America’s top students, the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth offers children scoring in the 97th percentile on school standardized tests the opportunity to take above-grade exams.

Fifth and sixth graders are tested at the eighth and ninth grade levels, while seventh and eighth graders take the same SAT test that high school seniors take. Those who score in the top third of these tests are honored in nationwide ceremonies, such as the Celebration of Talent held at San Jose State University on June 5.

Of the 382 fifth through eighth graders honored at the Celebration of Talent, 30 of them were from Bay Area Challenger Schools, and eight of those 30 were from Challenger Almaden. In addition, Bret Harte Middle School was also well represented, with 11 award recipients.

“It’s gratifying to see that our local schools are producing so many students who are even eligible for this test, let alone so many high scorers, and of course I’m particularly impressed with our own little school’s outstanding performance,” said proud Challenger parent Jenny Walicek.