The instructional programs for gifted and talented (GT) students provide differentiated instruction to meet student educational needs. A continuum of gifted services is offered in grades K-8. Learning experiences are designed to develop higher-level thinking through enrichment, acceleration, and extensions of the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Program of Studies.

Information regarding FCPS GT Programs can be found at http://www.fcps.edu/DIS/gt.

SCHOOL BASED SERVICES IN THE PRIMARY GRADES
Response Lessons in critical and creative thinking are provided for all students.  Students who exhibit characteristics of emerging giftedness are considered for GT differentiated services within the classroom. These services are specifically planned for advanced learners to provide more challenging content, assignments, resources, and/or instructional grouping.

SCHOOL BASED SERVICES IN THE UPPER GRADES
GT school-based services for the upper grades are part of the continuum of gifted services. The instructional model is designed to provide direct services for identified gifted students. The gifted and talented resource teacher designs differentiated lessons that challenge students to learn at a faster rate, think on a higher level, and study sophisticated and complex content both in support of, and beyond, the FCPS Program of Studies.

GRADES 3-8 GT CENTER PROGRAM   
The full-time GT school-based center program offers eligible students a challenging academic program designed to meet the needs of highly gifted students. Curriculum differentiation in the depth, breadth, and pace of instruction is matched to students' needs in each content area. Students work with academic peers in core subject areas. They also participate with the entire student body in activities such as student government, physical education, band and strings, and other electives.

SCREENING PROCEDURES FOR THE GT CENTER PROGRAM
Parents/guardians may refer students for GT Center placement by completing and submitting a Gifted and Talented GT Center Referral Form by February 1, 2007. The countywide central selection committee reviews candidates for GT center placement and makes eligibility decisions.
The Gifted Behaviors Rating Scale (GBRS), ability and achievement test data, student progress reports, and other academic information are used to determine appropriate GT services.
The local school GT committee determines student eligibility for school-based GT services.