Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Contacting ATDP: How can I contact ATDP?
You can reach us by phone at (510) 642-8308, or visit us at 3639 Tolman Hall, which is in the northwest corner of campus, at the intersection of Hearst Ave. and Arch Street. Our mailing address is listed at the bottom of each page. You can also email us at ATDPQuestions@gmail.com.
Accommodations for parents: Are there accommodations for parents who wish to remain on campus while their children are in class?
Yes, Washington School provides a parents' room. As with all school visitors, parents wishing to use the parents' room must sign in at the school office and receive a new visitor's badge each day.

Ways of Applying to ATDP (ED)

Applying online: How do we apply on the ATDP website?
Read the Application Instructions page, and then click the ED link on item #1—the Elementary Division (ED) online application.
Obtaining more applications: How do we receive an additional catalog/application?
You may photocopy a blank application. For a new catalog, send a self-addressed, stamped ($1.56), 9" x 12" envelope to the ATDP office: 3639 Tolman Hall, Berkeley CA 94720-1670. Please indicate 'ED' for Elementary Division or 'SD' for Secondary in the lower left corner of the return envelope. You can also download the application from the website—2010 ED Catalog (same as the link to the left, at the bottom of the sidebar). Photocopied applications are accepted.
Picking up catalogs at the ATDP office: May I pick up extra catalogs or drop off my application at your office?
Yes. Our office is at 3639 Tolman Hall (northeast corner of the building), across from the intersection of Hearst Avenue and Arch Street. The building is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Extra catalogs are available outside our office door. If no one is in the office, simply slide your completed application under the office door.

Admission and Course Placement

Absences: I know I will be absent for several days. May I still take an ATDP class?
If the absence will be for more than two class meetings, you may not. If the absence will be for two days or fewer, talk with your instructor in advance. You may not miss the first two or more days of class.
Is this program only for the 'gifted': My child has not been identified as 'gifted' by her school. Is this program appropriate for her?
Official school designation of 'gifted' is not required for admission. However, students should be hardworking, enjoy learning, and be prepared for an intellectually stimulating and demanding summer class.
Are admissions first-come, first-served: Are students admitted on a first-come, first-served basis?
No. While we evaluate complete applications in the order they are received, we select students based on indicators of academic talent, including high academic test scores, a teacher recommendation, and a student product. However, in evaluating applications of equal merit, the earliest application will receive preference.
Chances for admittance: What are my chances for admittance?
A typical ATDP student is in very good standing, both academically and where behavior is concerned. Students with low conduct marks, or poor work habits or citizenship are not eligible for admission.
First course choice placement: Will I be placed in my first choice of classes?
When possible, students receive their first choice class. Complete applications are evaluated in the order that they are received. First preference is given to returning students; however, to increase their chances of being placed in their first choices, both new and returning students should submit their completed applications well before the deadline. If two similarly qualified students apply, the application completed first will be given first preference. Make sure that all your course choices are suitable to your grade level.

Filling Out and Returning the Application

Returning students from a few years back: Am I still a returning student if I haven't attended in a few years?
Yes, you are!
Not listing alternates: Will I improve my chances of being placed in my first choice class if I don't list alternates?
No. We always start by attempting to place students in their first choice and only look at the alternates if the class is filled or if a student's application is not competitive for that class.
Listing alternate course choices: I have only one course choice. Do I still have to list alternate classes?
While recommended, it is not required. List alternate choices only if they are acceptable to you. If your first choice class is filled or your application is not competitive for that class, we will consider you for your acceptable alternates in order to place you.
Taking two courses: May I take two courses?
While ED students may not take two classes, you may choose to supplement your ATDP class with on-site sports camp (see CYOP program information)
Class schedule coordination with another student: My sister and I need to have class at the same time. What can I do to assure that we can commute together?
Attach notes to both of your applications indicating that you need to come together and stating which time (AM or PM) you prefer. If you would like to be scheduled at the same time, but are able to attend either in the morning or in the afternoon, please indicate this also.
Late applications: Can I turn in a late application?
While we do accept late applications on a space-available basis, we strongly recommend that you submit your complete application as early as possible, before the deadlines. Complete applications are reviewed in the order they are received. In past years, most classes filled with qualified students who turned in their applications before the deadlines.

Choosing a Course

Taking a class beyond grade level: Would I be allowed to take a class above my grade level?
If there is a compelling reason that you should take such a class, include a petition letter with your application. Remember that grade level refers to the grade you have completed. Besides superior academic abilities, students accelerating a grade level should also be socially mature and have advanced fine motor skills.
Taking a course outside area of strength: Should I encourage my children to take a class outside their areas of strength?
You may consider doing so. We generally recommend that parents discuss all the course options with their child and that they choose together the class that best capitalizes on the child's academic strengths and deep interests. When making the decision, remember that ATDP classes move at a rapid pace and it is important that all students be willing and able to keep up with the challenging work.
Lab experience required: Should students have prior experience in a lab setting before taking a hands-on science course?
No prior lab experience is required. ATDP lab instructors teach and emphasize safety at all times.
Taking a "sixth grade" class: By July, I will have completed sixth grade. Should I still take a "sixth grade" class?
Yes. ATDP classes are listed by the grade a student will be completing in June. Elementary Division students have completed Kindergarten through sixth grade. Some older sixth graders who have attended ATDP in the past may consider applying to the Secondary Division, but must include a petition letter to the director with their applications

Reporting Achievement Test Scores

Achievement test not on your list: The achievement test I took isn't on your list. Will you accept it?
If the test was administered by your school and your scores are reported with national percentiles, you may submit your test scores. Otherwise, see the next question.
Haven't taken achievement test in a while: What if I haven't taken an achievement test for a long time?
If you've taken an achievement test in the last three years, include your latest scores with your application. If you have never taken an achievement test, or have not taken one in the last three years, have your school counselor or other representative sign the appropriate line in Part V on page 2 of the application.
New report card and test scores: I will be getting a new report card and achievement test scores in a few weeks. Should I wait for them before submitting my application?
No, you should not delay in submitting your application, as we evaluate complete applications in the order they are received. If we need newer records, we will contact you.

Fees and Financial Aid

Materials and lab fees: What do the materials and/or lab fees pay for?
In addition to the supplies and equipment used in class (including science and computer labs), the fees also cover photocopying and field trips.
Financial aid decisions: How do you decide about financial aid?
We look at a family's tax return to determine total available resources. We make every effort to help families with limited resources.
Change in family financial situation: A drastic change in our financial situation is not reflected on our tax return. What should I do?
Attach a letter explaining your situation, as well as any supporting documents (e.g., unemployment forms), to the tax forms you send in.