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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]
The program isn't for gifted students only- [b]that's why they changed the name to Advanced Academics Placement[/b]. [/quote]

The above statement is factually incorrect.[/quote]

So what if that's not the exact reason? The FCPS website says "The AAP Level IV 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 is designed to meet the needs of advanced learners with a strong emphasis on higher level thinking skills." I don't see the word "gifted" in that description.[/quote]

The program exists because the Commonwealth of Virginia requires school districts to provide "gifted" education. Don't have time for a link right now, but it's out there.

The name of the program was changed to emphasize that it has an academic emphasis. When it was called "Gifted and Talented," there were parents who thought that it was meant for kids with talents in the arts and music. Another reason for the change was to avoid labeling the children but to label the program instead.
[/quote]

Regulations per Commonwealth of Virginia:

http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+reg+8VAC20-40-20

and "the exact reason" the name was changed:

[quote]Changing the name of Gifted and Talented Programs

Background

As part of one of the three recommendations presented by GTAC to the School Board in May 2006, the Committee suggested developing a framework for creating and fostering a positive school climate in schools which currently have a GT Center. We recognized that administrators and teachers must promote respectful interactions between center and non-center students. Finally, we recommended that schools should integrate GT students into the total school community through team building and improved communication, as well as provide parents a better understanding of the GT curriculum or Level IV service. The Committee recognizes and commends the ongoing efforts by the School Board and its staff to respond to these issues.

During the course of the GTAC discussions this year, the question was raised about the name of the program itself. We know that the State of Virginia requires Fairfax County Public Schools to provide gifted services, but it does not designate the name of those services. Several choices were discussed and, while some members did not support a change, the majority of the Committee membership approved of a name change from Gifted and Talented Services to Advanced Academic Programs. It was felt by the Committee that this name change emphasizes efforts to put a label on the service being offered and recognizes the academic nature of the program. 
[/quote]

http://www.fcps.edu/is/aap/pdfs/aapac/gtac/GTAC2006-07AnnualReport.pdf

And if the PP would like to see the minority report that was offered that year (2007), it is available here:

http://fcag.org/documents/gtac/gtac_2007_minority_report.pdf

[/quote]

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