Students who score in the superior range on the individually-administered abilities test are asked to participate in Allegro. Additional students in grades 5-8 are evaluated based on teacher or parent request. In addition to the academic instruction, students are given the opportunity to take part in one or more field trips which are designed to provide an extension of the courses offered, as well as time to socialize with peers in a non-school setting. The Mentorship Program is offered to any high school junior or senior with a 3.5 grade point average or better. Students apply for an opportunity to work with a mentor in a career or profession of personal interest.
Placement depends on the availability of appropriate mentors.
Students are required to spend 50 hours shadowing their mentor, usually outside the school day. Additionally, students are required to keep a journal and to spend at least 10 hours developing a project in their mentorship field. At the end of the program, students and mentors are invited to a dinner to share their experiences and celebrate their successes. The purpose of the Ashtabula County Gifted Program is to provide opportunities for instruction and enrichment at a pace appropriate for gifted and high-achieving students, both inside and outside of the classroom environment.