GT Overview
The instructional programs for gifted and talented (GT) students provide differentiated instruction to meet student education 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. 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.
GT School-based services for elementary grade are designed to strengthen direct services for gifted learners and toenhance the quality of instruction offered to alls tudents. The gifted and talented specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to design differentiated lessons that provide more challenging content, assignments, resources, and/or instructional grouping. The local school GT committee determines student eligibility for school-based GT services.
The full-time GT 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. Approximately 8 percent of the third through eight grade students in FCPS attend the GT Center Program. Parents and Guardians may refer students for GT center placement by completing and submitting a Gifted and Talented GT Center Referral Form to the local school principals. The county-wide central selection committee reviews candidates for the GT center placement and makes eligibility decisions.
