The collaboration model is the service delivery model for gifted services. Each high school has a full-time Advanced Academic Coach (ACC) (formerly known as a Resource Teacher for the Gifted). Within the collaborative model, the ACC and teachers regularly plan for daily differentiation in a variety of ways: implementing curricular resources written for gifted learners; infusing strategies identified on the Critical and Creative Thinking Framework for ongoing rigor, depth and complexity to units and lessons; differentiating lessons using pre-assessments and curriculum compacting, flexible grouping, student voice and choice, tiered assignments, problem and project based learning, personalized learning, independent study and/or research projects.
Content differentiation is achieved by course selection at the high school level. High school students identified as gifted in academic areas and the arts are offered a variety of advanced/intensified courses including the IB Program at one high school and the AP courses offered at all four comprehensive secondary schools. In addition, students may participate in independent study for credit and/or dual enrollment in college courses. Students may also take advanced technical courses at the Career Center. APS provides full funding for eligible students to attend the regional academic-year Governor’s School (Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology).
For additional information, please visit www.apsva.us/gifted-services.
K-12 Countywide Opportunities
There are countywide activities available to students identified for gifted services in academics and arts. These experiences are designed to extend school-based activities and respond to students’ interests. Opportunities include:
Academics:
- Advanced Placement Classes (9-12)
- High School Independent Study (10-12)
- International Baccalaureate Classes at Washington-Liberty (10-12)
- Regional Governor’s School for the Gifted—Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology (9–12)
- P.R.I.M.E. (Professionally Related Internship/Mentorship Experience) (rising 11 & 12)
- Summer Residential Governor’s School for Academics/Mentorships (rising 11 & 12)
- Summer Residential Governor’s Foreign Language Academies (rising 11 & 12)
- Course offerings at the Career Center
Arts:
- Fine Arts Apprentice Program (Grades 10–12)
- Independent Study (grades 10-12)
- Summer Residential Governor’s School for Visual & Performing Arts (rising 11 & 12)
- Arts area local, state, and national competitions (K–12) such as Reflections Contest (K–12), Scholastic Arts Awards (Grades 9–12), or District XII Solo/Ensemble Competitions (Grades 7–12)