What Advanced Academic services are available in FCPS?
FCPS is committed to providing challenging learning experiences for all learners that build on individual strengths and optimize academic potential. In order to meet the needs and develop the potential of advanced learners, FCPS provides a continuum of advanced academic services.
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How does the school determine the appropriate level of advanced academic service for each student?
Each FCPS elementary school is staffed with an Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART). The AART collaborates with the school staff to determine the appropriate level of advanced academic services. Parents may refer their child for advanced academic services by contacting the AART at the local school. Ongoing observation and assessment ensures that student needs are being met.
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My rising kindergartener is very advanced. What are my options for placement and services?
The Code of Virginia and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) regulation state that a child's fifth birthday must fall on or before September 30 of the school year for the child to be eligible to attend a Virginia public school. FCPS does not have waivers or considerations based on student skills.
If a parent elects to place a child in a private kindergarten program because the child did not meet the public school age requirements, the child will be considered eligible for kindergarten the following year. However, the principal has the option of promoting the child to first grade upon review of the child's academic records and staff assessment of performance. If a child attends private school kindergarten and first grade the child would be eligible for second grade but the principal maintains the option to place the child in first grade if concerns arise.
Students in kindergarten may be considered for level II services beginning in kindergarten in areas of academic strength. Services are delivered by the general education teacher in consultation with the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher with regards to appropriate curriculum and resources to add depth and complexity to the Program of Studies.
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Who can provide additional information about advanced academic services?
For additional information about the screening process or advanced academic opportunities at your child’s school, contact the principal or Advanced Academic Resource Teacher at your local elementary school or the Director of Student Services at the middle school. For information on countywide services for advanced learners, visit the Advanced Academic Opportunities web site or call the Advanced Academic Programs office at 571-423-4740.
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Are there summer enrichment programs for advanced academic students?
Although there are no summer enrichment programs specifically designed for advanced academic students, FCPS summer school offers many programs designed to enrich and extend student learning. The summer school catalog, with descriptions and locations of the classes, is mailed to each home in the spring.
The National Association for Gifted Children, http://www.nagc.org/ publishes a list of summer enrichment programs.
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What is the difference between full-time AAP (level IV) center program and the general education program?
The full-time AAP (level IV) center program for students in grades 3 through 8 offers identified students a highly challenging instructional program that follows the FCPS Program of Studies. Differentiation in the depth, breadth, and pace of instruction, along with a strong emphasis on higher level thinking skills is designed to meet the needs of advanced learners with a strong emphasis on higher level thinking skills. Adaptations are made to the curriculum in order to provide an appropriate level of challenge for advanced learners with a strong emphasis on critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.
The general education elementary school program offers instruction in the core curriculum as defined by FCPS Program of Studies (POS) and Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL).
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