Programs and Services

Services for English Learners

English Learner Services provide instructional support in academic content and language development for identified students in kindergarten to grade five. Students are assessed and placed each year at one of five levels (levels 1-4 or level 6) based on their English Language Proficiency (ELP). Students at ELP levels 1,2, and 3 are at entering, beginning and intermediate levels of language proficiency. Students placed at level 4 are at an advanced level of language proficiency. The English Learner services also support and monitor the progress of advanced proficiency students who are classified as Reaching-level 6.

Students in levels 1-4 are assessed annually by the Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State-to- State for English Language Learners (ACCESS for ELLs) language proficiency test as well as by local assessments. Students no longer receive English Learner services when they become a level 6, English proficient, according to the ACCESS for ELLs.

For further information, please talk to your teacher(s) or visit the Office of English Learners website.

Exemplary Projects

Exemplary Projects are designed to improve student learning and promote academic achievement gains through innovative teaching models; increase interest in the school; and strengthen instructional coherence in the school. Each exemplary project must:

• enhance instruction for all students enrolled at the school
• strengthen the school’s instructional coherence
• build local community commitment to the school
• include a clear evaluation plan and reporting schedule

Exemplary Projects reflect the specific needs and desired outcomes for students as articulated by the school community and may provide:

• professional development in particular teaching methods for staff members
• additional staff members and/or a project coordinator
• unique teaching spaces with special instructional materials
• enriched curriculum
• partnerships with businesses and community organizations
• increased school activities and communication with families

Exemplary Projects help schools to create a unique identity while addressing APS Strategic Plan’s educational objectives. By providing a focal point for the entire school community, Exemplary Projects direct attention to common goals and provide motivation for students, families, and staff.

Humanities Project 703-228-6299

The Humanities Project, an artist-in-education program administered by the Arts Education Office, sponsors performances, residencies, and workshops. In each of Arlington’s public schools, students at all grade levels experience visits by guest artists annually. The Humanities Project utilizes the combined resources of schools and community to enhance education through the arts. Programs of high artistic quality that integrate the arts with other academic core subject are selected to participate in the Humanities Project. A directory of programs is available in the Arts Education office.

Junior Honors Music Programs 703-228-6171

The Junior Honors Music Program is comprised of Elementary Honors Chorus (grade 5), Junior Honors Band (grades 4- 6), and Junior Honors Orchestra (grades 4-6). The Junior Honors Programs are administered through the Arts Education Office. These music programs are designed to encourage excellence in the arts and to provide music experiences for highly motivated and/talented students. Auditions for these programs occur in the fall and are advertised through the schools’ music staff and the APS website. Rehearsals occur over a period of up to 14 weeks in the winter with a concert in the early spring.

Library Services 703-228-6085

The library manages and provides resources for learning and independent reading to foster the intellectual, emotional and social development of students. Students are taught 21st Century Skills so that they may become high-end users of information technology and lifelong learners. The library maintains an up-to-date collection which may be accessed both on and off-site and takes into consideration subject content, developmental needs, broad perspectives and cultural and ethnic diversity.

School librarians instruct students in finding using and integrating information into their assignments. Students use library materials in a wide variety of formats to retrieve, organize, document, analyze, evaluate, synthesize and present information. Students are taught to adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy for appropriate use of information. Librarians also collaborate with teachers to build curricular units and run special programs and extended hours to enhance reading opportunities for students and the greater school community.

Students and their families are encouraged to use the resources of the library both at school and at home by accessing their school library webpage and the resources listed there.

Primary Montessori Program (Pre-K and Kindergarten) 703-228-8632

Montessori education, based on the work of Maria Montessori, is an interdisciplinary, multi-age approach to learning. Students work independently and cooperatively in a prepared environment which allows student to work at their own pace. Montessori teaching materials are designed to promote habits of concentration, initiative, persistence, and discovery, while the Montessori philosophy and community emphasizes respect for others, peace and creativity.

Montessori programs for three, four, and five-year-old children are located at Montessori Public School of Arlington as well as Barrett, Carlin Springs, Discovery, Fleet, Oakridge and Jamestown Elementary Schools. Arlington residents are eligible for admission provided they have reached their third birthday on or before September 30 of the year of admission. Tuition for pre- kindergarten-aged children are charged on a sliding scale based on income. Two-thirds of the vacancies are reserved for children whose families meet income eligibility guidelines.

Applications are accepted online during the application period. A lottery is conducted if there are more applications than available spaces.

For more information on the program or application process, please visit the APS website or call the Office of Early Childhood at 703-228-8632.

Services for Gifted Students 703-228-6160

Each school provides differentiated education for students who have been identified as gifted. School-based services are delivered in the regular classroom setting with identified students cluster-grouped (minimum of 10 students per cluster) for specific instruction based on areas of strength. Cluster teachers receive training in characteristics of gifted learners and in best practices in differentiating for the varying needs of gifted learners. Cluster teachers are also trained in curriculum and resources written for gifted learners focusing on advanced content and concepts which extend and enrich the general education curriculum using critical and/or creative thinking, problem-solving, inquiry and research skills. When appropriate, opportunities for further acceleration are explored.

Resource teachers for gifted (RTG) are an integral part of each elementary school’s staff. Using a collaborative planning and/or co-teaching model, the classroom teacher and the RTG work together to integrate designated curriculum written for advanced learners into lessons for daily differentiation. RTGs also model critical and creative thinking strategies and lessons for all teachers with the goal of supporting further integration of these strategies in lessons throughout the school year.

Students may be identified for gifted services each school year in the specific academic areas of English, Mathematics, Social Studies and Science in Grades K-12 and in art and/or music in Grades 3-12. Additional information about the multiple criteria for eligibility and services can be found in the Gifted Services webpage or by contacting the resource teacher of the gifted at your child’s school.

Summer School (Elementary) 703-228-7645

Elementary Summer School is offered to identified students who are entering pre-k through grade 5 to help students who need to improve academic competencies.

Summer school information, including locations and times are posted on the APS website each February and available at all APS schools. If your child is eligible for Summer School, your child should register at their school by the program deadline.

The Summer School Program deadline varies each year and the deadline is strictly enforced. Transportation is provided to elementary students who live more than one mile from their assigned summer school site. Students who attend a Countywide Program or should register for their home school to qualify for transportation. Extended Day care is available before and after for the Elementary Summer School Program.

Extended Day 703-228-6069

The Arlington Public Schools Extended Day Program provides a supervised out of school time program for elementary students whose parents are employed, in school or incapacitated. Students in APS Pre-Kindergarten programs must be four years old by September 30th to be eligible for extended day. The program is operated by Arlington Public Schools staff and offers daily fun and enriching asset-building activities which are designed to meet the needs of each student. This is a fee for service program.

Extended Day operates a before and after school program at each elementary school on all regularly scheduled school days. The before school program open at 7 am and operate until the beginning of the school day. After school programs begin at dismissal time and operate until 6 pm. During the summer, Extended Day operates before and after school programs at each elementary summer school site.

When Arlington Public Schools are closed, all Extended Day programs are closed. If Arlington Public Schools announce a delayed opening, the Extended Day before school session is delayed the same number of hours. If Arlington Public Schools close earlier than the regularly scheduled time, the Extended Day programs close at 4 pm.

Families may submit registration information anytime between the spring application window for participation in the Extended Day Program. All registrations received during the application window will be considered equally. At schools that have enough slots for registrations received, all children registered by the application deadline will be enrolled. At schools that receive more registrations than slots available, all children registered by the application deadline will be entered into a random, double-blind lottery. Registration can be completed online.

For additional information, please prefer to the Extended Day Program’s website or call 703-228-6069.

Special Education 703- 228-6040

Arlington Public Schools (APS) is committed to providing a free, appropriate education to all identified individuals with disabilities aged two through twenty-one, inclusive who require special education services and reside in the county. (A child with a disability, age 2 to 21, inclusive means, one whose second birthday falls on or before September 30th. If your child with a disability becomes 22 after September 30, he or she is eligible to receive services for that school year.) Additionally, students with disabilities who are parentally enrolled in private schools located within the Arlington County boundaries are offered special education through an individual services plan developed by APS. To meet the unique educational needs of students with disabilities effectively, a full continuum of special education programs and services is offered. To the maximum extent appropriate, students with disabilities are served in the general education environment, attending classes with their non-disabled peers.

Student Support Teams (SST) are established in all schools to receive and act upon referrals of students who are experiencing difficulties. These committees may refer student with suspected disabling conditions to the school-based Special Education Eligibility Committee. Such a referral requires parental permission prior to formal assessment, which includes medical, sociocultural, psychological and education evaluations of the student. The Eligibility Committee reviews the required assessment information to determine whether the student has an educational disability which requires special education and/or related services. Parental consent is required for initial eligibility.

When a student is identified as having an educational disability that requires special education, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed. The IEP is developed by the IEP team, which includes parents. The primary purpose of the written document is to state the needs of the identified student and describe the specific special education services and accommodations which will meet these needs. Implementation of the IEP requires parental consent. The IEP team reviews and revises the IEP as appropriate, at least once each year.

The majority of students with IEPs are served in the general education setting. However, services may be provided in a special education setting, if the student’s needs so require. Therefore, schools provide a continuum of services in both general education and special education setting. Additionally, students may require specialized or intensive special education services to work towards goals established by their IEP team. In order to most effectively meet the needs of students with specialized needs, APS has established a variety of programs. These programs allow students to receive consistent and effective services tailored to their individual needs. Each program provides specially designed instruction to address specific student needs and follows the standards of learning or the aligned standards of learning curriculum. Placement of a student into a program is a carefully considered IEP team decision, since such programs represent a more restrictive placement.

Below are brief descriptions of current programs. Program classrooms are considered self-contained settings, although opportunities for inclusion are sought for each student, as appropriate. All program classrooms are supervised by the principal of the building in which they are located, with support from the Office of Special Education. Each program classroom has one teacher and one or two classroom assistants. Each program is supported by additional staff from the Office of Special Education, to include related service providers, disability and behavior specialists, and special education coordinators.

In addition to countywide programs, APS has developed a model of concentrated disability-specific services to support special education students with vision or hearing impairments who experience a pervasive need for accommodations and services in order to access the general education curriculum. This concentrated services model provides services (such as Braille transcription or sign language interpretation) as well as environmental accommodations (such as adaptations to address lighting or noise) to support navigation and ensure safe access to the building. In addition to providing direct services to students, this model maximizes the impact of professional development to the general and special education instructional and support staff. Please note: the locations are not indicated here because they are subject to change.

Further information about special education in Arlington Public Schools can be found on the APS website under Office of Special Education or by calling 703-228-6040 or the APS Special Education Parent Resource center at 703-228-7239.

Special Education: Pre-Kindergarten

The APS Pre-K Special Education program receives oversight from the Office of Special Education. The program serves children with disabilities aged two to four years old. There are a variety of programming options based on student’s needs and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Options include community-based resource services provided in a child’s private childcare or Pre-K program within Arlington, toddler programs, multi-intervention programs for students with autism, non-categorical programs, and Community Peer Programs for students aged three to four years old. The programs for students aged three to four years old are aligned with the VPI curriculum. The goal of the Pre-K special education program is to help students meet their individualized IEP goals in identified development areas of delay.

Special Education: Preschool Special Education Program: Mini MIP-A (Pre-K)

The Mini-Multi-Intervention Program for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (Mini MIP-A) is designed to meet the needs of certain preschool students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The goals of the program include a focus on communication, adaptive behavior, and the ability to play independently and with other children. Mini MIP-A classrooms use a variety of evidence-based strategies within a highly structured setting to prepare students for elementary school. Strategies are selected and individualized to meet the needs of each student in the program. Examples of these strategies include: Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Picture-Exchange Communication System (PECS), and Visual Supports.

For detailed explanations of these and other interventions that may be utilized, please visit this website. 

Special Education: Deaf and Hard of Hearing

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing program is designed for students with deafness or significant hearing impairment who require a specialized language rich program. It is supported by a Teacher of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (TDHH) with collaboration from a speech-language pathologist and audiologist. The goal of the program is to improve the language and communication skills of students and provide full access to the general education curriculum. Sign Language, cued speech, spoken English, and/or visual aids are used to support students access to the curriculum.

Special Education: Functional Life Skills Program

The focus of the FLS program, elementary level, is on establishing basic academic skills, increasing daily living skills, communication, motor/mobility skills, and sensory development. Students who receive special education support due to cognitive or intellectual disabilities, sensory impairment, orthopedic impairments, or other health impairments, may be candidates for the Functional Life Skills program. The program provides highly individualized educational programming with intensified related services. FLS, elementary level, utilizes a variety of research supported curricula and practices, such as the Unique Learning curriculum for academic and pre-vocational skills. As one component of instruction, Unique Learning provides individualized assessment, monitoring, and lessons in the critical skill areas of reading, writing, math, science and social studies. The team- oriented approach draws upon a variety of strategies and interventions to develop educational plans to serve the needs of the students.

Special Education: Interlude

The focus of the Interlude program is on improving social and emotional functioning in the students who have significant interfering behaviors due to psychological or behavioral disorders. Students who are receiving special education support due to an emotional disability or significant behavioral issues, but whose academic skills are at or near grade-level, may be candidates for Interlude. The program provides a therapeutic environment to help students improve self-concept, develop positive relationships, and succeed academically. The team-oriented approach draws upon academic, clinical, therapeutic, interagency and family resources to an develop educational program to serve the needs of the students.

Special Education: Multi-Intervention Program for Students with Autism (MIPA)

The primary focus of the MIPA program is on providing students with the opportunity and environment to increase communication skills, independent life skills, social skills, and academic performance. Students who are receiving special education support due to an educational label of autism may be candidates for the MIPA program. The program provides a highly structured environment and utilizes a variety of evidence-based academic and behavioral interventions for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Strategies are selected and individualized to meet the needs of each student in the program. Examples of these strategies include: Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Picture-Exchange Communication System (PECS), and Visual Supports. For detailed explanations of these and other interventions that may be utilized, please visit this website. 

Student Services 703-228-6061

School psychologists are assigned to each school on a regular basis. The psychologist serves as part of a multi-disciplinary team which assesses problems and develops intervention plans for students who are experiencing difficulty with learning or adjustment. School psychologists are licensed professionals with specialized training in child psychology, learning development and assessment. The psychologist may conduct individual evaluations of the intellectual, social and emotional development of students; provide individual or small group counseling; and/or serve as a consultant to parents and other staff members. A close relationship is maintained with community mental health resources.

School social workers are also assigned to each school on a regular basis. School social workers are licensed professionals that facilitate communication between the home and school and serve as liaisons to various community agencies. As a part of a multi-disciplinary team, they assess the total environment of students to determine factors which may be contributing to social, emotional or academic difficulties. School social workers may offer a range of intervention services including parenting classes, counseling, short-term counseling, consultation and assistance with referrals to other agencies.

For further information on school psychology and school social worker services, visit this website. 

Student Services: Elementary School Counseling Program 703-228-6060

Professional school counseling services are available in all elementary schools. The comprehensive school counseling program promotes student success in the areas of academic, social/emotional, and career development. Professional

School Counseling deliver a core counseling program through classroom lessons. They also provide short-term direct counseling services to students in both individual and small group settings. The school counselor works closely with teachers and other educational staff, families, and community agencies in order to meet the diverse needs of all learners. For more information, please visit this website or contact your child’s professional counselor.

Student Services: Homebound Instruction 703-228-6051

Homebound instruction is designed to provide continuity of education when a student is confined to home or a health care facility due to physical or psychiatric conditions which prevent school attendance for a limited period of time.

The student’s inability to attend school must be certified by a licensed physician or licensed clinical psychologist, and the request must be approved by the Supervisor, Special Education.

The APS Guidelines for Homebound Instruction, as well as necessary forms, can be found on the APS main website, under Academics, Special Education, Homebound Instruction or at this website. 

Questions related to Homebound Instruction should be forwarded to the Office of Special Education, Special Programs Unit at 703-228-6051.

Student Services: Language Services Registration Center (LSRC) 703-228-7663

Students who speak a language other than English are referred to the Language Services Registration Center (LSRC) for assessment and registration. Based on assessment of the student’s language and mathematics skills, as well as on consideration of past academic experience and of information provided by the parent or by adult students, the LSRC staff recommends the appropriate grade level and English program placement for each student. Foreign student transcripts are evaluated by the LSRC to provide grade and credit equivalencies for graduation requirements in APS. Parents and students also receive assistance with completion of registration requirements. The LSRC multilingual staff answers parent questions and provides information about schools and school programs and provides parent orientations. The LSRC provides oral language interpretation and written translation to all APS schools and families.

For more information you can visit us at our website.

Student Services: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Arlington’s Section 504 process has specific requirements for the identification, evaluation, placement and procedural safeguards of students, as described in the APS School Board Policies and within the APS Section 504 Procedural Manual. The preliminary identification of a student who may be eligible under Section 504 will be conducted at the school building level. Each school shall establish a Section 504 committee that includes staff who are knowledgeable about: Section 504; the student (including the nature of the student’s possible disability); assessment procedures; accommodations and services; and placement options. This committee shall operate under the direction of the principal, or designee. The committee’s purpose shall be to process referrals, review assessment information and develop plans for students who are determined to be eligible under Section 504. The Section 504 Coordinator assigned to the building is invited to attend all initial eligibility determinations and any meeting where related service may be required.

A Section 504 Compliance Officer is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the policy and holds an impartial hearing whenever necessary. To obtain copies of the School Board Policy please visit this website. To obtain copies of the Section 504 Procedural Manual, please visit this website or call or write:

Director of Student Services, Section 504 Compliance Officer
Office of Student Services
Syphax Education Center
2110 Washington Boulevard
Arlington, Virginia 22204
703-228-6061

School Health Bureau 703-228-1651

School health services, provided by Health Aides and Public Health Nurses who are employed by the Arlington Department of Human Services. School Health staff provide students and their families with preventive and early intervention services. The goal of these services to enable the student to learn to the best of their potential.

1. School Health Services
   Health Aides staff the school clinics during regular school hours and provide direct care for sick and injured students and administer medication as ordered. Emergency 911 services are called when appropriate and the parent is notified. Public Health Nurses provide a wide range of services for up to three schools. Services include review a health records and immunizations; development of health care plans for students with medical conditions; training of school staff in giving emergency medication and special medical procedures; linkage to community resources and educating students on a variety of health topics.
2. School Health Physician
   The school health physician provides consultation to school staff and parents and coordinates a health appraisal clinic for income eligible students with limited means at all grade levels.
3. Screening Procedures
   Vision and Hearing screening are required at entry into kindergarten and at grades three, seven, and ten, for students being evaluated for special education, and for new students in all grades. In addition, students may be screened at the request of a teacher, parent, or physician.
4. Referral and Follow-up
   Public health nurses provide a pivotal link to county and community resources for students and families who need medical, dental, and mental health care.
5. Dental Health
   It is advised that every student have a dental checkup every six months by a private dentist or clinic. Students may be referred to the Arlington DHS Dental Clinic or dental providers in the community.
6. Medical Conditions
   Parents should notify the public health nurse if their student has a medical condition that requires medications or care during the school day. The nurse will work with the parents and school staff to develop an individualized health care plan appropriate for their condition.
7. Medication in School
   Signed medical provider and parent consent forms are required for medication to be administered during school hours. Instructions and form are available in each school clinic or electronically on the School Health website. 
8. Exemption from Physical Education Classes
   Students required to participate in physical education classes must do so unless there is a medical exception.A note from a medical provider is required for a student to be exempted from classes or provided with a program adapted to specific needs.
9. Health Education
   Public Health Nurses teach a variety of health education topics in the classrooms and serve as resources to teachers for expertise and health education materials.
10. Outbreak Surveillance
    School Health staff monitor and respond to outbreaks of contagious disease. They work closely with Arlington County Public Health Community Health Protection Bureau and Arlington Public Schools to investigate and minimize the spread of illness in the schools and the community.