In Montgomery County students are identified in the specific academic areas of mathematics and humanities. Students in grades K-12 may be nominated and evaluated at any time for formal identification using multiple criteria. In addition, students in kindergarten through third grade may be placed in the talent pool to help develop their potential for future evaluation in fourth grade.  Identification criteria includes parent and teacher checklists, student interviews, planned learning experiences, classroom observations, portfolios, grades, and standardized ability and achievement test scores. The gifted committee at each school meets and considers all information for each student and decides on eligibility. If found to be eligible, the student is placed in an appropriate program. At the middle school the options include: pre-algebra, algebra 1, geometry, foreign language, differentiated language arts units, independent research projects, academic competitions, mentorships, after school interest groups, and Summer Enrichment. At the high school, Advanced Placement classes are offered as well as honors classes, dual enrollment, opportunities for mentorships and independent research programs, Summer Enrichment, and Summer Governor's School.